Hernia de disco toracica operada por toracoscopia videoassistida / Herniated thoracic disc operated through video-assisted thoracoscopy

A detailed description of the surgical steps od the first five patients with herniated thoracic disc operated on through videoendoscopic technique at our institution are described below: This is an optimal approach to the spine through a ventral route with minimally ivasive technique. This surgical modality allows for superb illumination, visualization and magnification and permits relatively easy manipulation and dissection of delicate amatomic structures through small openings and with the use of high resolution endoscopes. Fast recovery is usual and the patients were discharged on the 3rd ou 4th postoperative day, some of them claiming of intercostal pain for more 24 to 48 hours. No cases of infection were observed.