Minimally invasive thoracoscopic resection of paraspinal neurogenic tumors: technical case report.

OBJECTIVE: The posterior mediastinum is a common location for benign neurogenic tumors. They are frequently asymptomatic but can present with local compressive or neurological symptoms. METHODS: Thoracoscopy is used increasingly over posterolateral thoracotomy for the removal of these lesions. RESULTS: Complete resection of these tumors through a thoracoscopic approach is possible in most cases, but dumbbell tumors present as special challenges, which require a combined thoracoscopic and open posterior approach. CONCLUSION: In this article, we outline the technique of thoracoscopic resection of paraspinal neurogenic tumors through an operative video and a review of the literature to summarize the surgical outcomes of patients with these lesions.