[Immediate results of thoracoscopic and open combined thymectomy: a two-center study]

To analyze the immediate results of thoracoscopic (video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy - VATS TE) and open combined thymectomy (OTE) for invasive thymomas.

We retrospectively analyzed 64 patients with locally advanced thymus tumors who underwent surgical treatment in two specialized centers. Combined VATS TE (main group) was performed in 28 patients, OTE (control group) - in 45 patients. Immediate results of these interventions were estimated.

Surgery time was similar in both groups. VATS TE was associated with lower intraoperative blood loss (p<0.001), complication rate (p=0.011), duration of postoperative pleural drainage (p<0.001), ICU stay (p<0.001) and hospital stay (p=0.023). There was lower need for narcotic analgesics (p=0.039) and duration of regular pain medication intake (p<0.001).

Combined VATS TE is possible in certain patients with locally advanced thymus tumors and characterized by better immediate results compared to OTE. However, analysis of long-term results is necessary to determine the feasibility of combined VATS TE.