Thymoma

Thymoma is a tumor originating from the thymus gland. It is an uncommon tumor, best known for its association with Myasthenia Gravis. Our team has Indias largest experience in removal of Thymomas by Robotic Surgery, VATS or Open surgery (depending upon the tumor size and invasion of surrounding organs).

Thymoma is a disease in which cancerous cells are found in the tissues of the thymus. The thymus is a small gland that lies under the breastbone and is part of the lymph system. It produces white blood cells called lymphocytes, which travel through the body and fight infection.

Thymomas and thymic carcinomas are rare tumors of the outside surface of the thymus. Thymoma is a relatively slow-growing cancer and usually does not spread beyond the thymus. However, thymic carcinoma grows faster and typically spreads to other parts of the body. Because of this, thymic carcinoma is often more difficult to treat effectively.

People at Increased Risk of Thymoma

Patients who have myasthenia gravis are at increased risk of getting thymoma.

What is Thymectomy?

A thymectomy is surgery to remove the thymus gland. This gland is located in the upper portion of the chest, behind the breastbone.

Reasons for Procedure

The thymus gland helps immune cell growth. It is usually active when you are an infant, but its function reduces as you get older. The thymus acts abnormally when a person has a condition called myasthenia gravis. A thymectomy is used to treat myasthenia gravis. A thymectomy may also be done if the thymus has a tumor, which is called thymoma. These types of tumors are often associated with myasthenia gravis, but may be associated with other conditions.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely do the following:

There are 3 common methods:

Trans-sternal approach—an incision will be made in the skin over your breastbone. The breastbone will be pulled apart. The thymus gland will then be exposed and removed. The incision will be closed with stitches or staples.

Transcervical approach—a small incision is made across the lower part of the neck, just above the breastbone. The thymus gland will be removed. The incision will be closed with stitches or staples.

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or robot assisted thoracic procedures —This is a less invasive option. Several tiny incisions are made in the area. A tiny camera will be inserted through one of the incisions. The camera will send images to a monitor in the room. Robotic arms may be used to do the surgery. Special tools will be passed through the remaining incisions to remove the thymus. After the thymus is removed, the incisions will be closed with stitches.