Image-Guided Right T10 Costotransverse Joint Resection for Costotransversitis: Operative Technique and Nuances:...

We describe the operative approach and management for costotransverse joint inflammation in a 49-yr-old man with worsening midthoracic pain radiating to the right paraspinal area. He underwent physical therapy with no relief of his symptoms. Thoracic spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed severe arthritic changes involving the right T10 costotransverse joint. Scoliosis X-rays showed a dextroconvex curvature in the midthoracic spine, without any significant imbalance. Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan revealed focal increased uptake of the right T10 costotransverse joint. T10 costotransverse joint lidocaine injection did not provide any relief. We performed a computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsy, which was negative for malignancy and also cultures were negative. MRI revealed a significant enhancement in this area and the patient's C-reactive Protein was elevated. Decision was made to perform open biopsy and costotransverse joint resection. We present a case of minimally invasive, image-guided costotransverse joint resection, which has not been described in the literature. The right T10 costotransverse joint was dissected out with the image-guided dilator, and tubular retractors were inserted. Under the microscope, using the image-guided drill, the right T10 costotransverse joint was drilled out. The lateral aspect of the right T10 process was drilled out as well as the medial-dorsal aspect of the right T10 rib. The patient recovered from surgery well with abatement of his preoperative thoracic pain, which remained abated at 6-mo follow-up. This case highlights the complex technical nuances of this procedure, and the importance of a thorough preoperative evaluation with a bone SPECT scan to help localize the pain generator. Patient consented for the procedures and for the publication of the video.