Mediastinoscopy

Mediastinoscopy is a minor surgical procedure used to examine and take samples from the mediastinum, the space between the lungs that contains lymph nodes, blood vessels, and other structures. A small incision is made above the breastbone, and a thin, flexible tube with a camera and tools (called a mediastinoscope) is inserted to view and collect tissue samples. This helps doctors diagnose or stage lung diseases, such as cancer, or identify infections. The procedure is usually safe, performed under anesthesia, and provides valuable information to guide treatment.