Thoracoscopic enucleation of a large esophageal leiomyoma using a three thoracic ports technique

Abstract

Background: Video assisted thoracoscopic resection of an esophageal leiomyoma offers distinct advantages over an open approach. Many papers have described various techniques of thoracoscopic resection.

Case presentation: We describe a 32-year old man who presented with intermittent dysphagia. Imaging studies showed a large esophageal leiomyoma. He underwent thoracoscopic enucleation using a three thoracic-ports technique.

Conclusion: Thoracoscopic enucleation can be technically performed using a three thoracic-ports technique.

Figure 1

Computed tomography scan of the chest showing the esophageal tumor mass bulging toward the right pleural cavity.

Figure 2

Patient positioning and port sites (A, B and C) for the right side. A: 5-mm port, posterior axillary line, seventh intercostal space. B: 5-mm port, anterior axillary line, fifth intercostal space. C: Camera port, mid-axillary line, nineth intercostal space.

Figure 3

Thoracoscopic findings: (A) The esophageal tumor projects into the right thoracic space; (B) The tumor is enucleated with a simple hook-electrocautery; (C) Trans-illumination from intraopeative esophagoscopy was identified after the tumor was collected in a plastic bag; (D) The tumor was completely removed through camera port in small pieces.