Extradural spinal meningiomas with intrathoracic extension. Report of two cases.

Two cases of extradural spinal meningiomas with intrathoracic extension are presented. Both cases were operated on previously for spinal epidural meningiomas. The first one showed predominantly intrathoracic growth and the second, dural invasion with protrusion through the root exit. In these cases meningiomas arose from the thoracic root exit. The surgical procedure is discussed. We advise postoperative X-ray therapy in these tumors and a long term follow-up of the patients.