Why go from the front to remove hardware from spine?

Depends: It truly depends on the location on the spine. The thoracic spine is surrounded by the rib cage, so it is much easier to enter through the chest (front) rather than the back.

Rarely: Most previously placed thoracolumbar spinal implants are readily accessible from a posterior surgical approach. There are only a handful of scenarios in which an anterior approach is preferred in the thoracolumbar spine. Be sure that your surgeon has clearly explained the thought process behind recommendations prior to surgery. A second opinion may also be a good idea for any major surgery.