ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the effects and feasibility of mini-thoracotomy focus cleaning in the management of cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis or pulmonary tuberculoma. Methods The mini-thoracotomy approach was adopted in patients with cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis or pulmonary tuberculoma who had undergone long-term anti-tuberculosis therapy or needed a re-treatment.Eight patients with chronic fibro-cavitative pulmonary tuberculosis and 10 patients with pulmonary tuberculoma underwent focus cleaning, irrigation, and folding suture. Results All the 18 patients were cured clinically, with their sputum findings turning negative for bacteria and pulmonary shadows subsiding. No operative complications occurred. Follow-up for 1～4 years found no recurrence. Conclusions Focus cleaning is an effective surgical alternative for pulmonary tuberculosis after proper selection of cases. The procedure is minimally invasive and patient's pulmonary function can be protected to the greatest possible advantage.