Prone position surgery for a subcarinal bronchogenic cyst

BACKGROUND: Prone position surgery has become widespread for esophageal cancer instead of the traditional lateral decubitus approach. Carbon dioxide insufflation and the gravity effect provide a better operative field without parenchymal retraction. We herein report a case of a subcarinal bronchogenic cyst, which was successfully removed by the prone position surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: A 65-year-old man presented with a subcarinal mass and was planned to undergo a surgical resection in the prone position. Although he required bilateral ventilation due to hypoxemia, the excellent operative field was maintained and we completed the thoracoscopic surgery without any additional parenchymal retractions. CONCLUSIONS: Thoracoscopic surgery in the prone position is a feasible option for subcarinal tumors with an excellent operative view and would facilitate a solo surgery without the need for a skilled assistant.