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Vertical axillary thoracotomy; a muscle-sparing approach for routine thoracic operations
D Van Raemdonck1, W Coosemans, T Lerut
1Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|September 1, 1993
Summary
A vertical axillary thoracotomy offers a muscle-sparing approach for thoracic surgery, improving early shoulder mobility and cosmesis. This technique minimizes postoperative morbidity compared to standard posterolateral thoracotomy.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Surgical Incisions
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Standard posterolateral thoracotomy involves muscle division, leading to significant postoperative morbidity.
- Limited early shoulder girdle motion is a common complication of traditional thoracotomy techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of a vertical axillary thoracotomy approach.
- To assess the cosmetic and functional advantages of this muscle-sparing incision.
Main Methods:
- A vertical axillary skin incision with an intermuscular approach was utilized.
- Nine patients with various intrathoracic lesions underwent this surgical technique.
- Submuscular suction drains were employed to prevent complications.
Main Results:
- All procedures were completed without major complications.
- Excellent wound healing was observed in all patients, with no infections or seromas.
- Patients experienced early and full shoulder girdle movement, with no late post-thoracotomy pain.
Conclusions:
- Vertical axillary thoracotomy is a cosmetic and muscle-sparing incision suitable for various thoracic procedures.
- This approach offers advantages in early functional recovery and reduced pain.
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is expected to gain prominence for specific indications due to lower morbidity.