Jul 24, 2023 · Thoracotomy describes an incision made in the chest wall to access the contents of the thoracic cavity. Thoracotomies typically can be divided into two categories; anterolateral thoracotomies and posterolateral thoracotomies.

Anterolateral thoracotomy is performed upon the anterior chest wall. The skin incision is performed starting from the posterior axillary line in front of the tip of the scapula towards the submammary crease.

May 2, 2022 · They’ll explain why you’re having a thoracotomy: whether it's to diagnose or treat an illness. It’s major surgery, and it might not be the only one you have. Follow your provider’s instructions before the procedure to do breathing exercises and quit using tobacco.

Jul 24, 2023 · Emergent thoracotomy is a procedure that is intended to temporize wounds and stabilize a patient via direct control of intrathoracic injuries, decompression of pericardial tamponade, and control of the aorta to prevent exsanguination. There are particular situations when an emergent thoracotomy is indicated.

The anterolateral thoracotomy provides excellent access to either upper lobe, the right middle lobe, and the anterior hila. It can be extended across the sternum into the opposite chest (clamshell incision). Anterolateral thoracotomy is our preferred approach for …

Jul 5, 2017 · Thoracostomy is a procedure that places a tube in the space between your lungs and chest wall (pleural space). It’s done to drain fluid, blood, or air from the area around your lungs....

Sep 8, 2021 · Before reaching the thoracic cavity, the incision passes through the latissimus dorsi and serratus anterior muscles, then transects the rhomboids and trapezius. The anterolateral thoracotomy ④ incision can be used in a variety of operations for cardiac, pulmonary, and oesophageal pathology.

Limited anterior or lateral thoracotomy: A 6- to 8-cm intercostal incision is made to approach the anterior structures. Posterolateral thoracotomy: The posterolateral approach gives access to pleurae, hilum, mediastinum, and the entire lung.

Mark the thoracotomy just distal to this scapular tip to follow the curve of the ribs. The surgeon generally stands on the posterior side of the patient and the assistant stands on the anterior side. After the skin incision is made, the first muscle encountered is the latissimus dorsi.

Three basic approaches are used: Limited anterior or lateral thoracotomy: A 6- to 8-cm intercostal incision is made to approach the anterior structures. Posterolateral thoracotomy: The posterolateral approach gives access to pleurae, hilum, mediastinum, and the entire lung.