[The surgical treatment of myasthenia gravis--the authors' own experience]

Proceeding from personal experience accumulated hitherto, the indications for both operative treatment of MG, and choice of the most adequate preoperative preparation and timing of thymectomy, are precisely determined. Pathohistologic findings and postoperative results in 47 patients, thymectomized in the period 1989 to 1994, are followed up and analyzed. The inference is reached that preliminary stabilization of the patient's condition with anticholinesterase drugs, and early and total thymectomy are essential for the successful outcome of treatment. It is preferable that thymectomy is done within six months of the occurrence of complaints or making the diagnosis.