Objective:
To present the surgical results of patients with a single-level thoracic disc herniation treated by a costotransversectomy approach, and to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this method.
Patients and Methods:
Here, we present the symptoms and signs at presentation, the recovery of symptoms after surgery, and the complication rates of 21 consecutive patients with single-level thoracic disc herniation treated with a costotransversectomy between 2004 and 2011.
Results:
The overall complication rate was 38% based on complication events, and 19% based on the patient population. The most common symptom at presentation was axial, localized, or radicular pain. The highest recovery rate was detected for pain. The operation time was short and the blood loss was minimal with this surgical method.
Conclusions:
Costotransversectomy should be kept in mind as a first-line surgical option due to its safety and minimal invasiveness. It provides excellent posterolateral vision for the surgeon.
Keywords: Costotransversectomy, Surgery, Thoracic disc herniation