Posterolateral approach to intradural extramedullary thoracic tumors.

Abstract

Six ventrally located intradural thoracic tumors were successfully resected through the posterolateral approach. This approach allows direct visualization of the ventral and dorsal boundaries of the tumor with minimal manipulation of the spinal cord. Compared to the traditional laminectomy, the operative time is increased but visualization of the tumor and spinal cord is markedly improved. Compared to the transthoracic approach, the posterolateral approach has fewer potential complications and eliminates the necessity of vertebrectomy. Neurological improvement occurred in all six patients. It is believed that this approach offers significant advantages for the treatment of ventrally located intradural thoracic tumors, and should be considered an alternative to the transthoracic approach.

• Authors: J C Steck, D D Dietze, R G Fessler
• Journal: Journal of neurosurgery (J Neurosurg) Vol. 81 Issue 2 Pg. 202-5 (Aug 1994) ISSN: 0022-3085 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8027802 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Dura Mater (surgery)
• Fascia (transplantation)
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Gelatin Sponge, Absorbable
• Humans
• Longitudinal Ligaments (surgery)
• Meningioma (surgery)
• Microsurgery (adverse effects, methods)
• Middle Aged
• Neurilemmoma (surgery)
• Neurologic Examination
• Pleural Effusion (etiology)
• Postoperative Care
• Postoperative Complications
• Sensation Disorders (etiology)
• Spinal Cord Neoplasms (surgery)
• Thoracic Vertebrae (surgery)