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[Thoracic disc herniation causing myelopathy. Our experience using transthoracic approach]
S Slavković1, M Bumbasirević, S Tomić
1Institut za ortopedsko--hirurske bolesti Banjic", Beograd.
Acta Chirurgica Iugoslavica
|October 22, 2005
Summary
This study on thoracic disc herniation in five patients highlights surgical decompression and fusion. Early diagnosis and treatment correlate with better neurological recovery outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Thoracic disc herniations are rare but can cause significant neurological deficits.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing thoracic disc herniations.
Observation:
- Six cases of thoracic disc herniation were treated surgically in five patients.
- Surgical approach involved thoracotomy, neural decompression, and autologous rib fusion (spondylodesis).
- Patients presented with varying degrees of neurological deficit, some progressive.
Findings:
- Full neurological recovery occurred in three patients; partial recovery in two.
- One patient developed complete paraplegia.
- Neurological recovery, measured by the Frankel scale, was better with shorter symptom duration and milder myelopathy.
Implications:
- The described surgical technique is effective and justified for treating thoracic disc herniations.
- Early diagnosis and surgical management are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- Multilevel thoracic disc herniations, though rare, require consideration in differential diagnosis.