We report our experience in the management of 6 patients with thoracic disc herniation using the postero-lateral approach. Costo-transversectomy in 5 patients, and transverse-arthropediclectomy in 1 were performed. One patient showed no improvement after disectomy using the costotransversectomy approach, while the others had good clinical conditions. Poor results were seen in a patient with a large central hard mass. Because the field of view is limited to central herniations and manipulation of the spinal cord involves considerable risks, lateral approach is indicated for large central hard masses. It is important to assess the level, location, consistency of disc herniation, general condition of the patient, and surgical experience when choosing the surgical approach.
