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Video-assisted thoracic surgery diagnosis of thoracic spinal tuberculosis
M Dusmet1, N Halkic, J M Corpataux
1Department of Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland. Dusmet@chuv.hospvd.ch
Abstract:
Tuberculous spondylitis is rare in economically well-developed countries. MRI is the most sensitive radiologic method of diagnosis. CT-guided fine needle aspiration can be an appropriate method for obtaining samples for culture, with positive cultures in 25 to 89% of cases. However, it can take >6 weeks for specimens to grow, and it is essential to have adequate culture and sensitivity studies for the diagnosis and treatment of mycobacterial diseases. We propose a minimally invasive diagnostic approach that ensures that adequate surgical specimens are obtained prior to initiating treatment.