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Clinical Application of Parasternal Mediastinotomy
James W. Calvin, MD;
Edward A. Stemmer, MD;
Robert A. Steedman, MD;
John E. Connolly, MD
AMA Arch Surg. 1971;102(4):322-325.
Abstract
A surgical technique (parasternal mediastinotomy) has been described which, with modifications, provides direct access to structures within the mediastinum. The procedure carries little risk for the patient and can be accomplished without disturbing pulmonary function or producing serious discomfort for the patient. We have utilized this technique in a total 152 patients for the diagnosis of indeterminate pulmonary lesions, evaluation of resectability of pulmonary neoplasms, biopsy of mediastinal structures including the heart, and insertion of permanent epicardial electrodes. Anterior mediastinotomy avoids the risks of formal thoracotomy and is of particular value in the treatment of poor risk patients. The use of this approach for placement of epicardial electrodes seems to have advantages over both the transthoracic and transvenous methods of permanent pacemaker implantation.
Author Affiliations
Irvine and Long Beach, Calif
From the Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Calif (Drs. Calvin, Stemmer, Steedman and Connolly), and the Surgical Service, Veterans Administration Hospital, Long Beach, Calif (Drs. Connolly and Stemmer).
Footnotes
Accepted for publication Dec 1, 1970.
Read before the 78th annual meeting of the Western Surgical Association, Colorado Springs, Colo, Nov 19, 1970.
Reprint requests to 5901 E Seventh St, Long Beach, Calif 90801 (Dr. Stemmer).
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ABSTRACT
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