Test Overview Mediastinoscopy
During the test, a doctor makes a small cut (incision) in the neck just above the breastbone. Sometimes the cut is made on the left side of the chest next to the breastbone. Then the doctor places a lighted tube into the cut. The tube lets the doctor look around inside that space.
This test is done to look for problems such as infection, inflammation, or cancer. The doctor may use the tube to take a sample of tissue from the area. This is called a biopsy. The sample can then be looked at under a microscope for problems.
This procedure usually takes about an hour.
Why It Is Done
How To Prepare
Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.
Preparing for the procedure Be sure to ask what may be done, such as lymph nodes being biopsied or removed, for each possible biopsy result. Your doctor may order certain blood tests, such as a complete blood count or clotting factors, before your procedure. Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking. If you don't, your procedure may be cancelled. If your doctor told you to take your medicines on the day of the procedure, take them with only a sip of water. Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia and pain medicine will make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own. Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options. Tell your doctor ALL the medicines and natural health products you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it. If you take aspirin or some other blood thinner, ask your doctor if you should stop taking it before your procedure. Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do. These medicines increase the risk of bleeding. Make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance care plan. If you don't have one, you may want to prepare one. It lets others know your health care wishes. It's a good thing to have before any type of surgery or procedure. Load More Information about Mediastinoscopy
How It Is Done
Remove glasses, contact lenses, and dentures or a removable bridge just before the test. You'll be asked to take off your jewellery.
Before the surgery, an intravenous (I.V.)
The doctor will make an incision just above your breastbone at the base of your neck or on the left side of your chest near the breastbone. The scope will be inserted through the opening. Your doctor will look at the space in your chest between your lungs and heart. Lymph nodes
After the test, you will be taken to the recovery room. You may feel sleepy for several hours.
Some people may go home if they can swallow fluids without gagging or choking. Others may need to stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 days.
How long the test takes The entire procedure usually takes about an hour.
How It Feels
Before the test, you may be given medicine to relax you. You will then get general anesthesia, which will make you sleep.
Risks
Problems from mediastinoscopy aren't common. But they may include bleeding, infection, a collapsed lung esophagus
Results
Mediastinoscopy results Normal:
Lymph nodes
There are no growths, abnormal tissue, or signs of infection.
Abnormal:
Lymph nodes may be enlarged or appear abnormal. This may mean sarcoidosis
Abnormal growths (such as a tumour) or signs of infection (such as an abscess
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: October 2, 2023
