[An axillary approach in cardio-pulmonary surgery]

From the experience in axillary approach in 219 cases of thoracic surgery including 202 cases of various lung resections, 2 cases of excision of mediastinal tumor in adults and 15 cases of ligature of PDA in children, it is found that in comparison with the ordinary postero-lateral approach, this hidden incision alongside the lateral chest wall averages 20 cm shorter in adults. No rib resection is needed, the surgical trauma and bleeding is much less and the operative course is shorter. The approach is to be recommended in selected cases of pulmonary and cardiac surgery for all ages. The operative procedure is described in detail.