A computed tomography (CT) scan of Nguyen Ngan's chest revealed a distinct anterior mediastinal tumor, located to the left and measuring approximately 22x15x23 mm. The scan also identified solid nodules and ground-glass opacities in both lungs, along with a small renal cyst, which require monitoring.

The mediastinum is the central compartment of the chest, situated between the two lungs. It extends from the superior thoracic aperture to the diaphragm and houses vital organs such as the heart, major blood vessels, trachea, and esophagus.

Specialist Doctor Level I Pham Huyen Thu, from the Department of General Internal Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, explained that conventional chest X-rays have limitations. Structures like the rib cage, heart shadow, and large blood vessels can overlap, making small tumors easily overlooked in early stages. In contrast, a chest CT scan, with its ultra-thin slices and ability to reconstruct sharp 3D images, helps assess the mediastinal tumor's location, size, and degree of invasion.

Doctor Thu explains the chest CT scan results to Nguyen Ngan. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Doctor Thu, Nguyen Ngan's initial symptoms, including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and palpitations, were easily mistaken for cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, or age-related health decline. The early detection and small size of Nguyen Ngan's tumor allowed for radical removal using the Da Vinci Xi robot.

Following the intervention, the patient's vital signs stabilized. Post-operative scans showed well-expanded lungs and no signs of compression. The symptoms of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and palpitations disappeared. The patient was able to engage in light activity and was discharged after 7 days.

Doctor Thu advises people to undergo regular health check-ups. Advanced technologies can help doctors detect lesions at an early stage, optimizing treatment effectiveness.

Thao Vy

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