Thoracal first vertebrectomy: C7-T2 fusion via anterior approach
Abstract Objective: In neurosurgical units, surgery via anterior approach on the upper thoracal vertebral column is rare, so many neurosurgeons lack the necessary experience. Complex and risky methods are described in textbooks and articles such as the resection of the manubrium sterni, first rib or clavicle. However, there are also many reports of serious complications and morbidity due to these types of surgical approaches. Material and Method: In the case presented here, a metastatic tumor at the first thoracal vertebra which was compressing the spinal cord was planned to be operated on anteriorly via the cervical discectomy method. Results and Conclusion: Vertebrectomy and the fusion was carried out successfully without any complications arising and the result was satisfactory. Through discussing this case, we wanted to point out that reaching the second thoracal vertebra anteriorly is possible without the resection of the sternum, rib or clavicle. Keywords: Anterior vertebrectomy, metastatic spinal tumor, upper thoracic vertebrae surgery, vertebra fusion Note: This article has also been presented as an electronic poster at 25 th Turkish Neurosurgery Society Scientific Congress held between 22-26 April 2011. DOI: 10.12973/ejms.2014.106p