[Method of extensive mediastinoscopy in lung cancer]

The technic of extensive mediastinoscopy is described, which enables visualization of anatomical structures of the mediastinum and lung hilus inaccessible for an examination while using mediastinoscopy after the Carlens technic. An experience with the extensive mediastinoscopy performed in 116 lung cancer patients is reported. This kind of investigation does not increase the incidence of complications as compared with the Carlens mediastinoscopy. The mediastinoscopy was performed immediately before thoracotomy.