This study evaluates the technique and results of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for the treatment of symptomatic @entity890 . Results were compared with a literature review of open surgical techniques of thoracic disc excision with regard to efficacy, safety, and surgical outcomes. VATS has recently been described for thoracic surgery as having the advantage of @entity282 and morbidity, faster @entity1 recovery, and shortened intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization. Twenty-nine consecutive @entity1 underwent VATS for symptomatic @entity890 . Herniations ranging from T5-6 to T12-L1 were successfully approached by using a three- or four-portal strategy. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were evaluated. Pre- and postoperative @entity717 Questionnaires and Linear Analog Pain Scale data were obtained. @entity1 were grouped according to presenting symptoms. The minimal follow-up was 1 year (range, 12-24 months). Mean operative time was 175 min for 29 @entity1 . Significant improvement (p < 0.01, paired t test) was recorded in @entity717 Questionnaires and Linear Analog Scale Tests. Of the @entity1 , 75.8% (22) were satisfied, 3.4% (one) unsatisfied, with 20.1% (six) unchanged. Narcotic use was significantly eliminated or reduced. Mean return to work was 5 weeks (private insurance) and 21 weeks (workers compensation). The surgical and postoperative complication rate was 13.8%. VATS appears to be a safe and efficacious method of excising herniated @entity1514 . Follow-up results at 1 year resulted in high @entity1 satisfaction. VATS advantages include decreased length of hospitalization as well as improved @entity1 comfort.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic excision of XXXX : description of technique and preliminary experience in the first 29 cases.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['Patients', 'patients', 'patient'] @entity1514 :: ('MESH:D013896', 'Disease') :: ['thoracic discs'] @entity717 :: ('MESH:D009069', 'Disease') :: ['Oswestry Disability'] @entity282 :: ('MESH:D010149', 'Disease') :: ['decreased postoperative pain'] @entity890 :: ('MESH:D007405', 'Disease') :: ['thoracic disc herniation']
@entity890 :: (MESH:D007405,Disease) :: ['herniated thoracic disc']
