Anterior Corpectomy with Fixation, Thoracic

Abstract

Because of the additional stability provided by the rib cage and the coronal orientation of their facet joints, the thoracic vertebrae are less susceptible to traumatic injury than the cervical or lumbar regions of the spine. While the majority of thoracic fractures may be adequately managed with a period of immobilization and early ambulation, anterior thoracic procedures performed through a thoracotomy may be preferable in certain cases because they allow for a thorough decompression of the neural elements and the placement of a load-sharing interbody implant within the vertebral column. In recent years, anterior instrumentation systems have also been developed that may confer even greater stability to the disrupted segment. This surgical approach is best suited for patients who demonstrate severe canal compromise or focal kyphosis; however, stand-alone anterior constructs may not be appropriate for fracture–dislocations or ligamentous injuries that may require supplementary posterior fixation.