Related Experiment Videos
Thoracic discectomy using video assisted thoracoscopy
M B Horowitz1, J J Moossy, T Julian
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania.
Spine
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) shows feasibility for thoracic discectomies, potentially reducing invasiveness. Further instrumentation development is needed for this minimally invasive approach to become a standard surgical alternative.
Area of Science:
- Minimally invasive spinal surgery
- Thoracic surgery techniques
- Surgical innovation
Background:
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has been utilized for pulmonary resections since 1991.
- The application of VATS for thoracic disc resections remains unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of utilizing VATS for thoracic discectomies.
- To assess the potential of VATS in performing thoracic disc resections with reduced invasiveness.
Main Methods:
- A laboratory study involving two human cadavers and three live pigs.
- Nine thoracic disc levels were decompressed using VATS.
- VATS provided visualization, avoiding large thoracotomy incisions.
Main Results:
- Successful evacuation of disc material in five of seven cadaveric and two of three porcine disc spaces.
- One instance of dural violation occurred.
- One animal experienced an anesthetic complication, leading to mortality.
Conclusions:
- VATS offers a viable method for thoracic discectomies via small thoracotomy incisions.
- This minimally invasive technique may decrease morbidity, hospitalization, and costs.
- Further research and instrumentation design are required for VATS to become a standard alternative.