Mediastinoscopy is a process which is used for examination of mediastinum. It is a minor surgical process that gathers samples of lymph nodes. This procedure helps doctor to look inside the area behind the breastbone and between the lungs. In this process, the surgeon inserts a small instrument called mediastinoscope through an incision in the throat. The tube is slowly moved into the mediastinum. Any abnormal lymph nodes seen through the camera are removed or biopsied with the cutting tool and checked in lab.
This process is done for the purpose of removing lymph nodes of lung cancer patients. These nodes are examined to see the spread of lung cancer. It can also help in determining the best treatment for lung cancer. In addition to this, this method can also be used to find medical issues like bronchi cancer, cancer that starts in lymphatic system, tumor of thymus gland etc.
Before taking out the test, you should inform your healthcare provider about any medicines you are taking or if you have allergies to any medicine. Generally, this procedure is safe but there is small risk of infection in the lung, collapse of part of lung, bleeding and hoarseness etc. Your healthcare provider may order chest x-ray after the process to check for other lung problems. Doctors look for biopsies to study the size and shape of cells in your tissue. It may also help in determining whether these lung cancer cells are normal or cancerous.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. You should always consult your healthcare provider for any medical issues.
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