Thoracic disc herniations: evolution in the approach and indications.

Between 1960 and 1 June 1985, 21 patients were operated for thoracic disc herniations. The advent of new operative techniques (with transverso-arthropediculectomy) has brought about new indications in the management of such disorders. These new indications are important because such protrusions may be abruptly complicate by compression of blood vessels, which may produce abrupt and irreversible neurological deficit. The progress in the radiological examinations allows a more precise study of the topography and density of the hernia. Furthermore, the use of a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques allow a surgical treatment without preoperative medullary angiography.