Open anterior and lateral thoracic interbody approaches and techniques

Abstract

Due to their rarity and diversity, pathologies of the thoracic disc space can be challenging to manage surgically. The complexity of these cases is compounded by the increased risk of patient morbidity that is associated with any pathology in this area, including the potential for devastating neurological deficit, vascular injury, or CSF leak. Open and lateral approaches to the thoracic disc space are perhaps some of the more invasive techniques used in spine surgery to treat thoracic disc disease and subsequently require special attention. This chapter will focus on open and lateral approaches to the thoracic spine for the purpose of interbody placement.