Thoracic intervertebral disc protrusion with spinal cord compression

Four patients presenting with spinal cord compression and spinal nerve root irritation are described. The clinical and radiological features are described and the contribution of CT scanning to accurate diagnosis of this condition is highlighted. Review of the literature indicates that the natural history of this disorder is one of steadily progressive neurological dysfunction. Surgical decompression of the lesion, although hazardous, is the only therapeutic option. Brief comment is made on the neurosurgical approaches currently in vogue.