Surgical Management of Giant Thymolipomas in Pediatric Patients: A Case Series

Abstract Thymolipoma is a rare benign tumor of the anterior mediastinum, exceptionally uncommon in children. These slow-growing lesions often remain asymptomatic until they reach a significant size, which may cause compressive symptoms. Surgical excision is the definitive treatment, as thymolipomas are unresponsive to chemoradiotherapy. Here, we present a case series of three pediatric patients with large thymolipomas extending into bilateral thoracic cavities. Two patients underwent successful resection via median sternotomy, avoiding more extensive thoracic incisions, and one infant with asymptomatic thymic hyperplasia is under surveillance. This case series highlights the diagnostic challenges, perioperative considerations, and the adequacy of median sternotomy for even massive lesions in children.