Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Thymectomy as an Optimal Treatment in Myasthenia Gravis

Abstract

Background: Myasthenia gravis is a neurological disorder characterized by muscle weakness. The role of thoracoscopic thymectomy in the treatment of this disease is controversial, but has some advantages that include less pain, shorter hospital stays, and better cosmetic results. Objectives: After the introduction of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) thymectomy, there has been increased interest in the use of this technique for myasthenia gravis. We conducted a retrospective study to assess the safety and efficacy of VATS thymectomy in treatment of myasthenia gravis. Patients and Methods: The medical records of 50 patients who underwent VATS thymectomy for the treatment of myasthenia gravis between May 2005 and June 2010 in Afzalipour Hospital, (affiliated to Kerman Medical University of Sciences, Iran) were reviewed. The patients were examined for response to treatment; for patients who were not available for examination, data was obtained through telephone conversations. Results: Forty-three of 50 patients were accessible. Of these, 34 were female and 16 were male, with a mean age of 34.8 years. The treatment responses were remission, 6 (16%); improvement, 30 (70%); and without change, 7 (16%). The total positive response to treatment was 84 percent. Conclusions: VATS thymectomy has been considered as a safe and effective treatment in myasthenia gravis and was associated with low mortality and morbidity. VATS thymectomy is recommended for the treatment of myasthenia gravis.