Complications and Pitfalls-Mediastinoscopy

Mediastinoscopy is a routine component of thoracic pathologic evaluation. It is performed through a small incision and is usually a prelude to a larger oncologic resection or used as a diagnostic tool. Despite this, mediastinoscopy should not be taken lightly. It is performed in an area, the mediastinum that is dense with vital anatomic structures, requiring expert navigation. The procedure carries significant potential risks, including hemorrhage, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, airway injury, pneumothorax, infection, and death.