What is thymectomy?
Thymectomy is an operation in which the gland of the thymus is removed. This procedure is most often performed as a treatment of autoimmune disorder called myasthenia gravis . Treatment of this disorder of thymectomy may cause remission, but remission is not always permanent. This disease is caused by abnormal behavior of the thymus that causes immune cells to respond to proteins in muscle tissue, causing damage and weakness of muscles. Because the thymus gland is involved in the regulation of the immune system, the removal of the thymus may be a useful treatment of the disorder. The procedure of thytectomy does not seriously plague the adult immune system, because its most important role, the role of activating T cells to respond to disease, is completed before adolescence.
Before undergoing surgery for thymectomy, various tests must undergo different tests to ensure that they are physically sufficiently strong enough to resist the tension of the procedure. This is important because Myasthenia Gravis can really weaken the body. Patients undergo X -rays,Blood and urine tests, respiratory tests and muscle strength tests. They can also be obliged to monitor special food and avoid some types of medicines a few days before the operation.
surgery can be performed in three different ways. In the transposternal form of the procedure, the cut is cut directly through the chest. The chest bones are then separated so that the gland can be removed. During the transservatory surgery, the cut is carried out above the stern. This is a less invasive approach because only a small cut in the throat is required to remove the brake gland.
Even less invasive is the procedure of thoracic surgery supported by video. They require only a few very small cuts through which surgical tools and mini-camera are inserted. The camera is screened through the camera to allow the surgeon to easily see.
The procedure takes approximately two to three hours and is performed under a general anesthetic. AfterMost patients will have a hospital stay between one and three days. The time for complete recovery varies from several weeks to approximately three months. The useful time depends on the overall physical health of the patient and the type of procedure used to remove the thymus.
Possible complications of thymectomy include respiratory failure during or in the first few days or weeks after the procedure, which is a risk mainly for older men and women. There is also a risk of infection at the wound site and a very low risk of nerve damage during operation. Any symptoms of infection such as chills, fever, swelling, redness or pain at the site of infection should obtain rapid medical attention. Symptoms of respiratory problems, such as breathing problems, should also be treated quickly.