An unusual cecal mass on routine colonoscopy.

Cecal masses secondary to extra-luminal compression are rare. We report a case of a 72-year-old man with a cecal mass found during routine colonoscopy with multiple biopsies showing normal colonic mucosa. The patient had a relevant past surgical history of a bilateral open inguinal hernia repair using the 'Plug-and-Patch' mesh system.

Resection of apical lung tumors in high-risk patients using partial sternotomy.

Surgical management of patients with compromised lung function remains a challenge. We describe a technique that uses a partial sternotomy to manage high-risk patients with clinical stage 1 apical lung tumors. In our experience with four patients we found this method to be effective, quick, safe, and with good short term outcome.