Related Experiment Videos
Posterior approach for soft cervical disc herniation: a neglected technique?
M A Rodrigues1, R A Hanel, D M Prevedello
1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
Surgical Neurology
|March 15, 2001
Summary
The posterior surgical approach for soft cervical disc herniation effectively relieved pain in 96% of patients. This method offers similar outcomes to anterior approaches without the need for bone grafting.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
- Cervical Spine Disorders
Background:
- Treatment for soft cervical disc herniation is debated, with a shift towards anterior approaches.
- The posterior surgical approach is less familiar to modern neurosurgeons.
- This study evaluates the efficacy of the posterior approach for soft cervical disc herniation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze surgical outcomes of soft cervical disc herniation treated via a posterior approach.
- To compare the effectiveness of the posterior versus anterior approach in managing cervical disc herniation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 51 patients undergoing laminectomy/flavectomy and disc removal (1990-1999).
- Outcomes assessed by pain relief, motor, and sensory improvement.
- Focus on soft cervical disc herniation cases.
Main Results:
- 96% of patients (49/51) experienced total pain relief.
- Short-term motor improvement in 76% (35/46) and sensory improvement in 62.8% (22/35).
- Mean hospitalization was 3 days, with no mortality or morbidity.
Conclusions:
- The posterior approach is a viable option for selected soft cervical disc herniation cases.
- Avoids bone grafting complications associated with anterior approaches.
- Achieves comparable results to anterior techniques without additional donor site morbidity.