[Intrathoracic coelomic cysts]

Intrathoracic coelomic cysts are benign embryonic tumors with a mesothelial lining. The aim of this work was to review possible localizations (pleuropericardic and other), the remaining surgical indications, and the current situation of minimally invasive techniques. We reviewed retrospectively, 28 cases of intrathoracic coelomic cysts in 12 men and 16 women, mean age 44 years. We recorded the cyst localization, clinical signs, indication for surgery, access routes used, and outcome. Twenty-one cysts were pleuropericardial cysts and 7 were ectopic mediastinal cysts. In all 7 of the ectopic mediastinal cysts and 4 of the pleuropericardial cysts surgery was indicated for diagnosis; for the other pleuropericardial cysts the indication was based on clinical signs (n = 4), large volume (n = 4), progressing volume (n = 7), no apparent reason (n = 1) and association with surgery for pneumothorax (n = 1). Assess was by mediastinoscopy (n = 1), mediastinotomy (n = 1), sub-xyphoid route (n = 1), thoracotomy (n = 18), and videothoracoscopy (n = 7). Long-term outcomes (mean follow-up 4 years 4 months) were good with no recurrences. Postoperative sequelae were observed in 6 cases after thoracotomy and in 1 case after videothoracoscopy. In summary, pleuropericardial cysts warrant surveillance without surgery unless their volume increases or clinical signs develop. Ectopic mediastinal cysts usually require surgery for diagnosis. It would appear advisable to prefer videothoracoscopy which allows diagnosis and excision of pleuropericardial cysts. Minimal thoracotomy may be helpful for ectopic mediastinal cysts.