Abstract
Use the standard thoracotomy approach for safe exposure of vertebral levels T2–L2. Proper rib selection depends on the pathology for most cases, especially those involving a strut graft. The rib to resect for a certain vertebral level is chosen by one of two methods:
When the pathology dictates a direct anterior approach to the vertebral column, that is, kyphotic TB abscess, choose the rib directly horizontal to the vertebral level at the midaxillary line in an anteroposterior (AP) chest X–ray. The rib removed must be cephalad to the lesion to give adequate proximal exposure while working down the lesion [1].
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Reference
Hodgson AR, Yau ACMC: Anterior surgical approaches to the spinal column. In Apley AG (ed): Recent Advances in Orthopaedics. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1964, pp 289–323.
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Watkins, R.G. (2015). Thoracotomy Approach. In: Watkins, III, R., Watkins, IV, R. (eds) Surgical Approaches to the Spine. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2465-3_17
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2465-3_17
Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY
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