Computer tomography-based three-dimensional reconstruction of an extended AB-thymoma: a case report.

Abstract

Thymomas are rare malignancies, constituting nearly half of anterior mediastinal tumors. We present a case of a large AB-Thymoma infiltrating adjacent structures. We evaluated computer tomography (CT)-based three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction to assess its utility in preoperative planning. The reconstructed images elucidated the spatial relationships between the tumor and surrounding structures and the findings from the reconstruction aligned with the surgical resection extent. Due to inherent imaging modality, the reconstruction had limitations in visualizing nerves and the pericardium. Nevertheless, 3D CT-based reconstruction of mediastinal tumors enhanced surgical planning by providing a detailed roadmap, facilitating preoperative discussions with patients, and serving as an educational tool for medical students.