Mini Transsternal Approach to the Anterior High Thoracic Spine (T1-T4 Vertebrae)

We are pleased to share our research published on PubMed, which explores the mini transsternal surgical approach for treating metastatic, infective, traumatic, and degenerative conditions affecting the T1 to T4 vertebral bodies. This study analyzes surgical indications, technique, and patient outcomes over a five-year period.

Study Overview

📊 Patients Analyzed: 18 cases of thoracic myelopathy

🩺 Conditions Treated:

• Metastatic spinal tumors
• Infectious spinal diseases
• Traumatic injuries
• Degenerative spine disorders

Key Findings

✅ Patient Outcomes:

• 78% showed neurological improvement (higher Frankel grade)
• 22% remained stable, with no deterioration

✅ Surgical Safety & Efficiency:

• No intraoperative complications
• Average surgery duration: 210 minutes
• Only one case of postoperative pneumonia, successfully treated with antibiotics

Clinical Significance

🔍 Advantages of the Mini Transsternal Approach:

• Direct visualization of the anterior spinal cord
• Overcomes anatomical challenges in the cervicothoracic transition
• Allows early and effective spinal reconstruction
• Preserves spinal alignment with good functional recovery

🔗 Read the full paper here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27218104/

This study supports the mini transsternal approach as a safe and effective surgical strategy for treating high thoracic spine pathologies.