Mediastinal Tumor

Our team of thoracic surgeons treats both cancerous and non-cancerous mediastinal tumors. These tumors form in the chest area that contains the heart, aorta (the body's largest artery), esophagus, thymus (one of the glands), trachea, lymph nodes, and nerves.

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830 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
Moakley Building 617.638.6428

Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Treatments & Services

Mediastinal tumor treatment depends on whether or not the tumor is cancerous, its stage, and the patient’s overall health. After taking all of these factors into consideration, the surgeon may recommend:

Minimally Invasive Tumor Removal

Video-Assisted Thorascopic Surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive alternative to open chest surgery that involves less pain and recovery time. After giving you a sedative, the physician will make tiny incisions in your chest and then insert a fiber-optic camera called a thorascope as well as surgical instruments. As the physician moves the thorascope around, images that provide important information are projected on a video monitor. VATS is not appropriate for all patients; you should have a thorough discussion with your provider before making a decision. It is often not recommended in people who have had chest surgery in the past, because remaining scar tissue can make accessing the chest cavity more challenging and thus riskier.

Diagnostics and Tests

The multidisciplinary medical team at the Center for Thoracic Oncology will work with the patient and their primary care physician to diagnose the patient’s tumor.

The doctor might recommend tests including:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

This test uses a magnetic field, radiofrequency pulses, and a computer to produce detailed images of body structures in multiple planes. Some people may need an IV put in place so caregivers can inject a contrast solution into their veins. This depends on the exam the doctor has ordered. MRI is a more detailed tool than x-ray and ultrasound and for certain organs or areas of the body, it provides better images than CT.