Trans-sternal approach to intraspinal tumours in the upper thoracic region.

The surgical management of ventrally located intraspinal tumours is often difficult, particularly in the upper thoracic region. The anterior approach to these tumours is hindered by anatomical structures. We report our experience using the trans-sternal approach. Three patients with intraspinal tumour between T1 and T4 underwent this approach. The surgical technique, the clinical presentation, the radiological features and the results are presented.