The role of minimally invasive surgery in paediatric mediastinal masses and thoracic tumours

The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) in Paediatric Mediastinal Masses and Thoracic Tumours. MIS has transformed paediatric surgical oncology. This chapter explores the pivotal role of MIS in managing thoracic and mediastinal tumours in children, emphasising diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery has demonstrated significant utility, allowing for precise tumour resections and reduced morbidity. The techniques' feasibility and efficacy are underscored across a range of tumour types, including thymic, neurogenic and germ cell tumours, with promising outcomes in both high-resource and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The chapter pretends to be a practical guide for surgeons treating children with mediastinal and thoracic tumours, describing types of neoplasms, diagnostic approaches and treatment principles and options, with particular focus on surgical nuances and intraoperative advice. Despite its benefits, the chapter highlights critical challenges, including the limitations posed by large, invasive tumours and resource constraints in LMICs. The role of MIS in pulmonary metastases, particularly in osteosarcoma, is also discussed, with a focus on the balance between minimally invasive approaches and open surgeries for complete resection. Key principles for patient selection, surgical planning and the integration of advanced imaging and technology are emphasised, aiming for optimal outcomes. The chapter also addresses contraindications, different surgical techniques, anaesthetic considerations and the importance of global collaboration to expand access to MIS. It concludes with a call for continued innovation and equitable distribution of minimally invasive technologies worldwide, ensuring that the benefits of these techniques are accessible to all children with cancer, irrespective of geographical and economic barriers.