Modification of the technique of radical intrapericardial pneumonectomy

Since radical intrapericardial pneumonectomy was introduced by Allison in 1945, complications of several serious types have been reported secondary to this technique. The authors have seen fatal cardiac herniation, as well as severe paradoxical respiration after sacrifice of the phrenic nerve. Simple technical steps can eliminate these dangers, and after introduction of the required changes we have not seen the former complications. The authors' techniques are described and a small series of animal experiments supporting their use is presented.