[Diagnosis of benign neoplasms of the mediastinum]

An analysis of 252 patients with benign tumore and cysts of the mediastinum indicated that high per cent (35%) of diagnostic errors is conditioned by the absence of clinical signs typical for this pathology, as well as rather similar roentgenological symptomatics in its different forms. Following resection of large neoplasms, when it proved unfeasible to close the pleural defect (the removed tumor bed) by suturing its margins, the aughors performed alloplasty with lyophilized pericardium or dura mater. Pleural alloplasty was employed in 18 (8.7%) patients. In all 206 operated patients no significant postoperative complications were observed. There were no lethal issues. Ii is felt that plastic repair of pleural defects should be considered absolutely essential while removing benign mediastinal neoplasms.