Transoral Spine Surgery - an Update

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Transoral spinal interventions have declined in Europe and North America due to advancements in drug therapy for rheumatism.
• However, certain pathologies still necessitate a transoral approach, often for pathological tissue resection.
• The use of anterior plate systems, common in India and China, contrasts with posterior approaches in Europe and North America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current indications and trends in transoral spinal surgery.
• To highlight the role of transoral surgery in managing craniocervical junction pathologies.
• To discuss advancements and their impact on surgical morbidity.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and surgical practices regarding transoral spinal interventions.
• Analysis of trends in surgical indications and geographical variations in approach.
• Evaluation of emerging techniques such as endoscopy and transnasal access.

Main Results:

• Indications for transoral spinal surgery are primarily infections and tumors, with trauma and congenital malformations being rarer.
• Surgical intervention numbers for these indications have remained stable.
• Endoscopic and transnasal techniques are emerging as methods to reduce surgical morbidity.

Conclusions:

• Transoral spinal surgery remains a viable option for specific pathologies, particularly infections and tumors of the craniocervical junction.
• While its use has decreased in some regions, advancements are improving its safety and applicability.
• The availability of anterior plate systems influences surgical approach choices globally.