Posterior transdural discectomy for thoracic disc herniation

Abstract

AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of posterior transdural discectomy for thoracic disc herniation. MATERIAL and METHODS: The medical records of seven patients who underwent posterior transdural discectomy for thoracic disc herniation were retrospectively evaluated. RESULTS: Between 2012 and 2020, seven patients (five men and two women) who were aged between 17 and 74 years underwent posterior transdural discectomy. Numbness is the most common presenting symptom, and two patients complained of urinary incontinence. T10-11 was the most affected level. All patients underwent at least 6 months of follow-up. There were no postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks and neurological complications postoperatively. All patients maintained their baseline neurological status or improved after surgery. No patient had secondary neurological deterioration or need for further surgical treatment. CONCLUSION: The posterior transdural approach is a safe procedure that should be considered in lateral and paracentral thoracic disc herniations providing a more direct surgical intervention.