A transsternoclavicular approach for the anterior decompression and fusion of the upper thoracic spine. Technical note.
The anterior approach is commonly used to reach the upper thoracic region to achieve decompression and stabilization; however, upper thoracic lesions are difficult to treat because of the regional anatomical structures, and this approach is associated with risks of complication. The authors evaluated the advantages of using a transsternoclavicular approach to aid in treating upper thoracic lesions. The procedure and surgery-related outcomes are discussed.
Tamura
Mutsuhiro
M
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Murayama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan. mutamura@k9.dion.ne.jp
Saito
Masashi
M
Machida
Masafumi
M
Shibasaki
Keiichi
K
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D017887:Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D013117:Spinal Cord Compression / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods*; D013128:Spinal Osteophytosis / Q000601:surgery*; D013247:Sternoclavicular Joint / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014399:Tuberculosis, Spinal / Q000601:surgery*