Do you experience muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, or fatigue that worsens by the end of the day?
These may be symptoms of myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune condition that affects the communication between nerves and muscles.

In some patients, the thymus gland plays an important role, and minimally invasive thymectomy (VATS thymectomy) may be a key part of the treatment plan.

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What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies that interfere with signal transmission between nerves and muscles.

The result:

• Muscle weakness

• Easy fatigue

• Symptoms that fluctuate during the day (worse with activity, improve with rest)

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Common Symptoms

• Drooping eyelids (ptosis)

• Double vision

• Difficulty swallowing

• Weakness in the arms or legs

• Fatigue that worsens with activity

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What is the Role of the Thymus?

The thymus gland plays an important role in the immune system and is often abnormal in patients with myasthenia gravis.

It may be:

• Enlarged

• Or contain a tumor (thymoma)

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When is Surgery Needed?

Thymectomy may be recommended in the following cases:

• Presence of a thymoma

• Thymic enlargement

• Generalized myasthenia gravis

• Poor response to medical treatment

• Younger patients and early-stage disease

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the individual case and may include:

• Medications to improve symptoms

• Immunosuppressive therapy

• Plasma exchange or IVIG in selected cases

• Thymectomy (offers the best chance for long-term improvement or remission in selected patients)

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Why Choose Dr. Mohammad Al-Tarshihi?

• Over 30 years of experience in thoracic surgery

• Pioneer of minimally invasive thoracic surgery in Jordan

• Extensive experience in thymectomy procedures

• Direct, personalized patient care

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You can send your medical reports or imaging via WhatsApp for an initial assessment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is myasthenia gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness due to impaired communication between nerves and muscles.
Symptoms fluctuate and typically worsen with activity and improve with rest.

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Is myasthenia gravis dangerous?

Not necessarily in most cases, but it requires proper treatment and follow-up.
In severe cases, it may affect breathing or swallowing and requires urgent medical attention.

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What are the symptoms of myasthenia gravis?

Common symptoms include:

• Drooping eyelids

• Double vision

• Muscle weakness

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking

• Fatigue that worsens with activity

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Can myasthenia gravis be cured?

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There is no guaranteed cure in all cases. Thymectomy is the best chance for cure
However, the disease can be well controlled.

In selected patients, especially after thymectomy, significant improvement or even remission may occur.

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What is the role of the thymus gland?

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The thymus gland is often abnormal in patients with myasthenia gravis.
It may be enlarged or contain a tumor, which is why it is evaluated in most patients.

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When is thymectomy recommended?

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Surgery is recommended in cases of:

• Thymoma

• Enlarged thymus

• Certain cases of generalized myasthenia gravis

• Poor response to medical therapy

 Thymectomy is often recommended in younger patients as it offers the best chance for long-term improvement

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Is thymectomy safe?

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Yes, it is generally safe when performed by an experienced thoracic surgeon.
Minimally invasive techniques (VATS) reduce pain and speed up recovery.

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Will myasthenia gravis improve after surgery?

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In many cases, patients experience significant improvement after thymectomy.
Some patients may reduce or even stop medications depending on their response.

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How long is the recovery after surgery?

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Typically:

• Hospital stay: a few days

• Return to daily activities: within weeks

• Full recovery: gradual over a short period

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Does every patient need surgery?

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Not all patients require surgery.
The decision depends on:

• Age

• Severity of the disease

• Condition of the thymus

• Response to medical treatment

 However, many patients—especially younger ones—may benefit significantly from surgery.

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Can I send my case for evaluation before visiting?

Yes, you can send your medical reports or imaging via WhatsApp for a quick initial assessment.

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Dr. Mohammad Al-Tarshihi

Consultant Thoracic Surgeon – Jordan

📞 +962 77 979 4141