Clinical features and surgical treatment of mediastinal masses in children: a retrospective study of 51 cases

Mediastinal masses in children are predominantly benign, frequently presenting with nonspecific respiratory symptoms, and CT remains the diagnostic modality of choice. Surgical resection was the primary treatment. Individualized intraoperative management based on lesion type, appropriate patient positioning, and decompression procedures can significantly reduce complication risks. Preoperative airway compression assessment and collaboration with anesthesia teams to establish emergency ventilation protocols are essential to ensuring perioperative safety in children.