Two Surgical Cases of Thymic Tumor Requiring Resection and Reconstruction of the Superior Vena Cava and the Brachiocephalic Vein

TL;DR

This paper presents two successful surgical cases of thymic tumors involving major veins, using autologous pericardium for reconstruction with circulatory support.

Contribution

Demonstrates the safe use of autologous pericardium and extracorporeal circulatory assist for complex thymic tumor resections.

Findings

Complete resection and reconstruction of the superior vena cava and brachiocephalic vein were achieved in two cases.

Autologous pericardium proved effective for venous reconstruction with temporary bypass support.

Extracorporeal circulatory assist is critical for safe surgical outcomes in such complex cases.

Abstract

Surgery for thymic tumor involving major vessels remains challenging; however, complete surgical resection is recommended when the resected major vessels can be reconstructed safely. Two cases are described in this report. In Case 1, complete surgical resection followed by reconstruction using an autologous pericardial patch was achieved owing to the temporary bypass assist. In Case 2, complete surgical resection followed by reconstruction using an autologous pericardial roll was achieved owing to the cardiopulmonary bypass assist. Complete surgical resection of thymic tumor involving the major veins can be achieved safely with appropriate extracorporeal circulatory assist. Autologous pericardium is useful for venous reconstruction.

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