We evaluateed pulmonary and cardiac function before and after the operation of circumferential incision of the diaphragma done for the purpose of dissecting thoracolumbar bodies anteriorly in a series of seven cases in our clinic for these two years. Scoliosis was in four cases, kyphoscoliosis in one and thraco-lumbar fracture in two. It is generally said that this operation has a tendency to provoke a high rate of complications because of developing two major cavities at the same time. Nevertheless, there have been found neither serious complication nor remarkable decrease in respiratory function after the operation in our series. We are certain that this procedure will not be so dangerous if proper and intensive postoperative managements can be provided.
