[Thoracic intervertebral disk prolapses]

Surgical treatment of thoracic disc protrusion

The Authors report on nine cases of thoracic disc hernia operated on through Carson's posterolateral approach. Several steps were taken to protect the spinal cord, and to remove completely disc fragments and any calcifications. The importance of the combined use of the operating microscope and the posterolateral approach are emphasized, and the longterm results are evaluated.

Thoracic intervertebral disc herniation

Twelve men and 8 women, aged 15-73 years, were operated upon for herniated thoracic intervertebral disc during the years 1946 to 1972. The average duration of the symptoms was 14-15 months (range 4 days to 5 years). The most common symptom was back pain, with disturbances of sensibility or loss of power in one or both legs. On admission 13 patients had paraparesis. Laminectomy was carried out in all cases, and in two patients costotransversectomy was also performed. In six cases there was a transient exacerbation of the paraparesis after operation. 17 patients were followed up 2-25 years after operation. 13 had no neurological symptoms or signs, and two had slight loss of power in the legs. Of two patients who had paraparalysis before operation, one still suffered from paraparalysis, while the other had a moderately severe paraparesis.