Mediastinotomy is a surgical operation that is performed to access organs and tissues in the mediastinum. The mediastinum is the area between the sternum and the spine that contains many important organs such as the heart, lungs, esophagus, trachea and great vessels.
The purpose of a mediastinotomy is to provide access to these organs and perform necessary manipulations, such as removing tumors, installing drains, removing foreign bodies, or performing other surgical procedures. The operation is performed through an incision in the sternum or side wall of the chest to provide easy access to the organs.
After surgery, the patient may experience some discomfort and pain due to the surgery, but usually the condition improves quickly and the patient can return to normal life.