Biportal Endoscopic Foraminotomy with Unilateral Screw Fixation Using a Dynamic Rod for Radiculopathy Due to...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Spine Procedures

Background:

• Radiculopathy secondary to osteoporotic compression fractures presents a significant challenge in elderly patients.
• Traditional surgical approaches may involve higher risks and longer recovery times for this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of biportal endoscopic foraminotomy with unilateral screw fixation for treating radiculopathy caused by compression fractures.
• To assess patient outcomes, including pain reduction and radiological stability.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study included 20 elderly patients (mean age 78.8 years) with single-level radiculopathy due to compression fractures.
• Patients underwent biportal endoscopic foraminotomy and unilateral dynamic rod screw fixation.
• Outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and radiological evaluation, with a mean follow-up of 13.0 months.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in radiculopathy was observed immediately after surgery and throughout follow-up.
• Back pain also improved, though a mild degree persisted.
• No cases of subsidence, scoliosis, or symptomatic screw loosening were noted; one patient had postoperative pneumonia.

Conclusions:

• Biportal endoscopic foraminotomy combined with unilateral screw fixation offers an effective and safe treatment option for radiculopathy stemming from compression fractures.
• This minimally invasive technique demonstrates favorable clinical and radiological results in an elderly patient cohort.