Tài liệu Báo cáo y học: "Endoscopic thoracic laminoforaminoplasty for the treatment of thoracic radiculopathy

Radicular back pain is an important public health issue that can result in long term disability and poor quality of life. Conservative therapy is the initial treatment of choice, but fails to provide relief in a substantial number of patients. Central and foraminal stenosis with entrapment of descending and/or exiting nerve roots is a common cause of radicular pain, with an estimated incidence of 8 to 11% [1] [2] [3]. Spinal stenosis of the thoracic vertebrae is less common than that of the cervical and lumbar regions. In our experience, patients tend to be older and are more commonly male. Due to the close proximity to thoracic and abdominal organs, open surgical operations can be difficult and carry a greater risk of complications due to the requirement of a transthoracic approach. The most efficacious intervention for thoracic stenosis refractory to conservative management is uncertain at this time.