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[Sciatic foramina radiculalgia. Apropos of 16 cases]
Revue Du Rhumatisme Et Des Maladies Osteo-Articulaires
|July 1, 1983
Summary
This study identifies unusual L5 foraminal sciatica cases with chronic back pain and progressive symptoms. Surgical decompression of the intervertebral foramen yielded favorable long-term outcomes despite lengthy symptom duration.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Medicine
Context:
- Foraminal sciatica, particularly with L5 topography, presents unique clinical challenges.
- Sixteen cases with prolonged, non-acute back pain and progressive sciatica were observed.
- Standard diagnostic methods like amipaque saccoradiculography showed normal results, complicating diagnosis.
Purpose:
- To describe the unusual clinical features of foraminal sciatica with L5 topography.
- To identify the operative findings and surgical interventions for this condition.
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes of surgical treatment.
Summary:
- Operative findings revealed disc compression within the intervertebral foramen (hernia, residue, or softened disc).
- Multi-factorial compression, including root malposition and pedicular roof lowering due to degeneration, was common.
- Surgical interventions included disc curettage or localized annulectomy with facettectomy.
Impact:
- Surgical decompression of the intervertebral foramen is effective for foraminal sciatica.
- Understanding multi-factorial compression aids surgical planning and improves outcomes.
- Favorable long-term results were achieved, even with extensive pre-operative pain duration.