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Upper thoracic disc herniation followed by acutely progressing paraplegia.
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Japan Labour, Health and Welfare Organization, Spinal Injuries Center, Iizuka-shi, Fukuoka, Japan.
Spinal Cord
|July 13, 2005
Summary
A rare case of thoracic disc herniation causing paraplegia was successfully treated with surgery. Prompt surgical intervention led to significant recovery of motor function in the lower extremities.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Thoracic intervertebral disc herniation is a rare condition.
- Acute paraplegia can result from thoracic disc herniation.
- Diagnosis can be challenging.
Observation:
- A 37-year-old man presented with severe backache and rapidly progressing paraplegia.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a T2-T3 level epidural mass compressing the spinal cord.
- Neurological examination indicated Frankel classification C motor impairment.
Findings:
- Emergency laminectomy and excision of the herniated disc material were performed.
- The patient experienced complete relief from backache post-surgery.
- Motor function in the lower extremities recovered significantly within 4 weeks, allowing unaided ambulation.
Implications:
- Timely surgical intervention is crucial for favorable outcomes in acute thoracic disc herniation.
- Successful surgical decompression can lead to substantial neurological recovery.
- This case highlights the importance of considering disc herniation in the differential diagnosis of acute myelopathy.