[Thoracoplasty]

Abstract

Thoracoplasty was at 1st invented for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis during the days when no effective chemotherapeutic drugs for tuberculosis were available. Removal of some portions of the ribs by thoracoplasty deforms the chest wall and compresses tuberculous cavities. Since the introduction of potent anti-tuberculous drugs, thoracoplasty for pulmonary tuberculosis has been obsolete. Currently, thoracoplasty is mainly applied to reduction of the volume of the pleural space in the treatment of post-resectional space problems and in the treatment of thoracic empyema. Well-planned and safe resections of the affected ribs hold the keys to successful thoracoplasty. The procedure is performed alone or with muscle flaps or with omental flap, depending on the extent of space and the presence of bronchopleural fistula. Thoracic surgeons should know the current application of thoracoplasty.