A thoracolumbar incision of many parts

The thoracolumbar incision developed by Newton and Dwyer has not seemed to receive the attention it perhaps deserves outside of orthopedic surgical circles. In selected instances, it can be used quite effectively in other types of surgery and may solve very difficult problems of approach and exposure. A fairly detailed description of the technique is given and some of its potential uses outlined. Briefly, the author's own limited experience with its use is presented and examples of clinical problems in the use of the incision are used for illustration.