J Bone Joint Surg Br
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J Bone Joint Surg Br · Aug 1984
Excision of prolapse of thoracic intervertebral disc. A transthoracic technique.
A new technique for the transthoracic removal of a prolapsed intervertebral disc in the mid or lower thoracic spine is described. Investigations before operation include thoracic myelography, selective spinal angiography and CT scanning. Image intensification is used at operation to check the level of the prolapse. ⋯ Spinal stability is not compromised, and the blood supply of the cord is not disturbed. Five consecutive patients are reported, including one in whom the disc prolapse was calcified and had herniated into the spinal cord. All were treated successfully.