The term thymectomy describes the surgical removal of the thymus gland. Located in the upper chest, behind the sternum, the thymus gland plays a role in the early development of the human immune system.

A thymectomy may be recommended because the gland has a tumor (anger) or for the possible improvement of the symptoms of weight gain myasthenia gravis (MG). Shortly after infancy, the need for the thymus gland ends: its removal has no effect on the body's ability to deal with possible infections.

Thymectomy can be performed either by open surgery through a sternotomy, or by minimally invasive techniques : thoracoscopic (VAT) and robotics (RATS). The superiority of minimally invasive thoracic surgery over the traditional method and the benefits it offers are obvious and self-evident.

Thymectomy is performed under general anesthesia. It takes about one to three hours and the hospitalization varies from one to two days. The thymus gland and nearby fat are removed and sent for analysis. 

Before any surgery  you must have a detailed and thorough discussion and examination by your Thoracic Surgeon about the procedure to be followed. 

For more information and clarifications or to schedule an appointment, you can contact Dr. Michalis Klimatsidas by calling (+030) 6944562928 or by filling out the relevant form.

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