Mediastinoscopy is performed under general anesthesia. The patient is given medication intravenously. A tube is inserted into the patient's throat, and the patient is connected to a ventilator for the procedure. A small incision is made just above the sternum, and a mediastinoscope is inserted into the chest. The device has a light and camera. This allows for examination of the chest area, lungs, and surrounding region, and a biopsy sample is taken. After the procedure, the device is removed, the incision is closed, the patient is awakened, and disconnected from the ventilator. Mild drowsiness may occur post-procedure due to the anesthesia.