Early recovery after retropleural approach in a paraparesis thoracic disc patient

Abstract

A 56 years old Thai male developed acute paraparesis 2 days before admission. The investigation showed T6-7 thoracic disc herniation on the left side with thoracic cord compres-sion. A lateral retropleural (extracavity) approach from the left side without penetrating the pleural cavity was performed. He was able to sit up and start the rehabilitation program within the first day after the operation on the bed and neurological status was gradually recovered within 2 months after continue home program for rehabilitation. Finally he can walk with gait aids. The motor power of his legs were grade IV according to Frankel classification and he can well control the uro-genital function.