Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 22, 2026
10:09
Transtubular Endoscopic Posterolateral Decompression for L5-S1 Lumbar Lateral Disc Herniation
Published on: October 14, 2022
4.6K
Decompressive L5 Transverse Processectomy for Bertolotti's Syndrome: A Preliminary Study.
Chang Il Ju1, Seok Won Kim1, Jong Gyue Kim1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Korea.
Pain Physician
|September 22, 2017
Summary
L5 transverse processectomy effectively treats Bertolotti's syndrome by relieving buttock and leg pain caused by pseudoarticulation or L4 nerve root compression. This surgical approach achieved satisfactory results in 86.89% of patients, improving their quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Spine surgery
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Bertolotti's syndrome involves abnormal enlargement of the L5 transverse process, potentially causing pseudoarticulation or L4 nerve root compression.
- This condition can lead to significant buttock and radiating leg pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of L5 transverse processectomy in treating symptomatic Bertolotti's syndrome.
- To assess pain reduction and quality of life improvements post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 61 patients with Bertolotti's syndrome undergoing L5 transverse processectomy.
- Diagnosis confirmed by imaging (CT, X-ray, MRI) and anesthetic block.
- Patients divided into two groups based on pain relief from blocks targeting pseudoarticulation or L4 nerve root.
Main Results:
- Mean postoperative VAS score significantly reduced from 7.54 to 2.86.
- 86.89% of patients achieved satisfactory results (excellent or good) based on Macnab's criteria.
- Improvements in pain scores and quality of life were observed post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- L5 transverse processectomy is an effective treatment for Bertolotti's syndrome, addressing pain from pseudoarticulation and L4 nerve root compression.
- The paraspinal approach offers a viable surgical option for this condition.
