Which procedure is performed to visualize the contents of the mediastinum?

Mediastinoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure specifically designed to visualize the mediastinum, the area between the lungs that contains vital structures such as the heart, major blood vessels, trachea, esophagus, and lymph nodes. The procedure involves making a small incision at the base of the neck and inserting a scope, which allows direct visualization of these structures. It is often performed to obtain tissue samples for biopsy, evaluate lymph nodes, or assess conditions like lung cancer or infections.

In contrast, thoracotomy involves a larger incision in the chest wall to access the thoracic cavity, making it less precise for targeting the mediastinum alone. Pericardiocentesis is used to relieve fluid accumulation around the heart (pericardial effusion) and does not visualize the mediastinum as a whole. Bronchoscopy is utilized to examine the airways and lungs but is not intended for viewing the mediastinum directly. Each of these procedures serves distinct purposes, but mediastinoscopy is uniquely suited for accessing and examining the contents of the mediastinum specifically.