Eleven-year experience in thoracoscopic excision of bronchogenic cyst

bronchogenic cysts are uncommon congenital cystic lesions. Most are incidentally detected and require surgical excision for histological diagnosis, symptom relief, and to prevent complications. Video-assisted thoracoscopic resection is preferable in suitable patients. In this study, we reviewed the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and thoracoscopic treatment of bronchogenic cysts.

from January 2001 to December 2011, 14 patients with bronchogenic cyst underwent thoracoscopic surgery for excision of the cyst. Their mean age was 24 years. Twelve patients were symptomatic (85.71%).

the average maximum diameter of the cysts was 6.7 cm. The most common location of the cyst was the mediastinum (n = 10, 71.4%). All bronchogenic cysts were completely excised. In 7 cases, the procedure was converted to thoracotomy. The mean hospital stay following thoracoscopic surgery was 4 days. There was no recurrence on follow-up.

thoracoscopic excision of a bronchogenic cyst should be considered the first-line therapeutic option. Proper preoperative case selection can prevent conversion to thoracotomy due to major pleural adhesions. There should be a low threshold for conversion to thoracotomy if complete excision of the cyst is not possible, because this is the main goal of treatment to prevent recurrence.