All thoracotomy patients have long term wound related symptoms. This situation is not improved by performing a muscle sparing incision. However thoracotomy through the triangle of auscultation can preserve latissimus dorsi strength which is compromised in a posterolateral thoracotomy incision. We therefore recommend that a muscle sparing thoracotomy be considered for patients where preservation of muscle strength is deemed important, providing the operation is not compromised due to inadequate access.
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