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A modified posterolateral approach to the thoracic spine
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA.
Journal of Spinal Disorders
|February 1, 1995
Summary
A modified posterolateral approach to the thoracic spine preserves the costovertebral articulation, avoiding rib resection. This safe and effective technique provides adequate exposure for select spinal procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Posterolateral approaches to the thoracic spine typically involve rib resection to maximize exposure.
- This can lead to increased morbidity for patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a modified posterolateral approach to the thoracic spine that avoids rib resection.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique in a patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 21 patients undergoing 22 modified posterolateral thoracic spine approaches.
- Indications included biopsies, spinal cord decompression, and herniated disc removal.
Main Results:
- The modified approach provided adequate exposure for all selected indications.
- One complication (wound infection) occurred in 22 procedures.
- Procedures included 16 biopsies, 3 decompressions, and 2 disc removals.
Conclusions:
- This modified posterolateral approach is safe and effective for specific thoracic spine procedures.
- It is particularly useful for biopsies, abscess drainage, and anterolateral compressions where vertebral body resection is not required.
- The technique is suitable for high-risk or debilitated patients.