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Updated: May 16, 2026

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Transtubular Endoscopic Posterolateral Decompression for L5-S1 Lumbar Lateral Disc Herniation
Published on: October 14, 2022
Laterality of cervical disc herniation
Yuichi Takahashi1, Takao Yasuhara, Shinji Kumamoto
1Department of Spine and Spinal Surgery, Shinkomonji Hospital, 2-5, Dairishinmachi, Moji, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 800-0057, Japan. yuichi5356@yahoo.co.jp
Summary
This study found left-sided cervical disc herniation (CDH) is more common at the C6-7 level. Understanding CDH laterality aids in surgical planning and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Cervical disc herniation (CDH) commonly affects lower cervical levels.
- Limited data exists on the laterality (left vs. right) of CDH.
- Laterality may influence clinical presentation and surgical approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the laterality of cervical disc herniation (CDH).
- To determine if CDH occurs more frequently on one side compared to the other.
- To analyze laterality across different lower cervical levels (C4-5, C5-6, C6-7).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 75 patients with single-level CDH.
- Analysis of preoperative computed tomography myelograms and magnetic resonance imaging.
- Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test to assess laterality.
Main Results:
- CDH occurred at C4-5 (11 cases), C5-6 (42 cases), and C6-7 (22 cases).
- At C5-6, laterality was balanced (20 right, 22 left).
- Significantly more left-sided CDH (19 cases) than right-sided (3 cases) was observed at C6-7 (p < 0.025).
Conclusions:
- Left-sided CDH is significantly more prevalent at the C6-7 level.
- Findings suggest a directional predisposition for CDH at specific lower cervical segments.
- Understanding CDH laterality is crucial for targeted diagnosis and treatment strategies.
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