@article{Mediastinum11365,
author = {Keith Nishihara and Nikitha Reddy and Kevin S. Tang},
title = {Preoperative and anesthetic management of high-risk cardiovascular complications of mediastinal masses: a narrative review},
journal = {Mediastinum},
volume = {10},
number = {0},
year = {2026},
keywords = {},
abstract = {Background and Objective: The mediastinum is a complex anatomical region that includes the heart, aorta, superior vena cava, trachea, and mainstem bronchi. Mediastinal masses, while relatively uncommon, can cause life-threatening cardiovascular symptoms from mass effect, including cardiac tamponade, superior vena cava syndrome, mediastinal mass syndrome, and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, requiring prompt identification and management. Currently, there are no guidelines that discuss the optimal management of these cardiovascular complications, and our review aims to address this.Methods: A database search in PubMed was conducted from September 2025 to November 2025, including articles related to mediastinal masses and the various cardiovascular complications that can arise. Selected articles were compiled and reviewed to help compose this review.Key Content and Findings: This review aims to outline the incidence and etiology of different mediastinal masses, review the presentation and diagnostic workup, highlight key life-threatening syndromes related to mass effect, and discuss definitive management of these lesions. Given the complexity of the mediastinum and potential for several life-threatening complications without appropriate identification, timely diagnosis is needed to guide management.Conclusions: A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in the stabilization and management of these patients with mediastinal masses and should be considered the standard of care in all patients. This review aims to summarize current literature for the management of cardiovascular complications related to mediastinal masses.},
issn = {2522-6711}, url = {https://med.amegroups.org/article/view/11365}
}