Safety and Efficacy of Transsternal Core Biopsy of Anterior Mediastinal Masses.

Background: The study evaluated the safety and adequacy of percutaneous transsternal anterior mediastinal core biopsy.

Methods: All percutaneous computed tomography-guided transsternal mediastinal 18-gauge core biopsies performed at 2 academic centers were retrospectively reviewed. Procedural, clinical, and pathology data were recorded.

Laparoscopic Robot-Assisted Diaphragm Plication.

Minimally invasive approaches to diaphragm plication for eventration include thoracoscopic and laparoscopic techniques. The elevated hemidiaphragm and ribs limit thoracoscopic techniques. We report our modification of the laparoscopic approach using robotic assistance with the da Vinci Surgical System, (Intuitive Surgical Inc, Sunnyvale, CA) to avoid single-lung ventilation, facilitate exposure, and allow more precise placement of plication sutures to achieve an even tension and maximum plication.