The Anterior Approach Operative Treatment For Cervicothoracic Spinal Lesions

Objective: To investigate the effects of different anterior surgical approaches of cervicothoracic spinal lesions.Methods: The different surgical approaches, procedures and prognosis of 12 cases of cervicothoracic spinal lesions were analyzed retrospectively.Results: 12 cases were followed-up from 3 to 46 months. In 7 cases by approach of upper sternum, 4 cases with fracture had improvements of neurological function after operation and 3 cases with metastatic cancer didn't recurred at the operative sites ,1 case is living and 2 cases died from primary disease 6 and 11 months after operation.2 cases with metastatic cancer by approach of left thoracic cavity died 3 and 6 months after operation. 3 cases with fracture by anterior approach of lower cervical vertebrae had improvements of neurological function after operation,but 1 case with plate located badly.Conclusion:Anterior approach by upper sternum is a better way to expose cervicothoracic spinal and helpful for easy operation, decompression and one stage internal fixation with less trauma and better effects.