Acute thoracic disc herniation with severe spinal cord compression: a case report

This case report highlights the rare presentation of an acute thoracic disc herniation in a 27-year-old male. Thoracic disc herniations are uncommon, accounting for less than 1% of all disc herniations, and acute presentations have scantly been recorded in literature. The patient, a mechanic, presented with a sudden onset of dorsal pain and bilateral lower limb weakness after lifting heavy equipment, leading to a sudden cease of most motor functions in the patient's lower limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a severe T9/T10 herniation with significant spinal cord compression. Emergency surgical decompression via a right-sided transpedicular thoracic approach was performed, resulting in progressive neurological recovery. This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis, timely surgical intervention, and multidisciplinary management in achieving favorable outcomes for this rare condition.