Thoracotomy

Thoracotomy
A left anterolateral thoracotomy exposing the heart and lung. A Harken retractor (rib spreader) is being used to increase visibility
ICD-9-CM	34.02
MeSH	D013908
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A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting open the chest wall to get access into the pleural cavity. It is mostly done by specialist cardiothoracic surgeons, although emergency physicians or paramedics sometimes also perform the procedure under life-threatening circumstances.

References

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