Percutaneous Endoscopic Thoracic Decompression for Thoracic Spinal Stenosis Under Local Anesthesia

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Thoracic spinal stenosis (TSS) is a common degenerative vertebral disease often requiring surgical decompression.
• Ossification of the ligamentum flavum is the most frequent cause of TSS.
• Percutaneous endoscopic thoracic decompression (PETD) is a minimally invasive surgical option performed under local anesthesia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy and safety of PETD for treating TSS.
• To evaluate PETD in cases of TSS caused by ossification of ligamentum flavum, thoracic disc herniation, or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 12 consecutive patients undergoing PETD between January 2017 and January 2019.
• Patients' preoperative and postoperative neurologic status was assessed using the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score.
• Complications and recovery outcomes were documented during a 1-year follow-up period.

Main Results:

• The average mJOA score significantly improved from 6.25 preoperatively to 9.75 postoperatively.
• Excellent or good recovery was achieved in 11 out of 12 patients.
• One case of dural tear and one case of transient paralysis worsening were reported.

Conclusions:

• PETD under local anesthesia is a feasible and effective treatment for TSS.
• This technique is a potentially safer alternative for elderly patients or those with comorbidities contraindicating major surgery.