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Subaxial cervical foraminal chondromas: case-based discussion on surgical management
Alberto Vandenbulcke1, Andrea Sanjurjo2, Anne-Laure Rougemont3
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Unit of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland. alberto.vandenbulcke@gmail.com.
Neurosurgical Review
|November 3, 2024
Summary
Surgical removal of symptomatic cervical foraminal chondromas aims to preserve neurological function. A retrojugular approach for a C6-C7 chondroma demonstrated successful resection without stabilization, highlighting tailored surgical access for these benign spinal tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Oncology
Background:
- Cervical foraminal chondromas are benign tumors.
- Symptomatic lesions can cause radicular or spinal cord compression.
- Surgical resection is indicated for symptomatic cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case of subaxial foraminal chondroma treated with a retrojugular approach.
- To systematically review the literature on surgical management of cervical chondromas.
- To analyze surgical approaches and outcomes for subaxial foraminal chondromas.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a C6-C7 right chondroma treated via retrojugular approach.
- Systematic literature review of 11 patients with subaxial foraminal chondromas.
- Analysis of patient demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical approaches, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The retrojugular approach allowed successful resection without spinal stabilization.
- The mean age at diagnosis was 33.6 years, with most patients presenting neurological symptoms.
- The C4-C5 level was most frequently involved (54.6%). Posterior approaches were most common (54.6%), with instrumentation needed in only one case.
Conclusions:
- Tailored surgical approach selection is crucial for complete resection and preservation of neurological function and spine stability.
- The retrojugular approach is a viable option for specific cervical foraminal chondromas.
- Understanding anatomical relationships guides optimal surgical access for subaxial foraminal chondromas.
