Microsurgery in anterior approach to cervical discs

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Cervical spondylotic radicular and radiculomyelopathic syndromes present significant neurological challenges.
• Traditional surgical approaches may involve risks of vertebral body injury.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought for improved patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of anterior cervical discectomy and osteophyte removal using an operating microscope.
• To assess the technique's ability to achieve complete decompression without vertebral body damage.
• To report clinical outcomes in patients with cervical spondylotic syndromes.

Main Methods:

• Anterior surgical approach for cervical disc and osteophyte removal in ten patients.
• Utilization of an operating microscope for enhanced visualization and precision.
• Inclusion of bone grafting in five patients following disc space preparation.

Main Results:

• Complete removal of intervertebral discs and posterior/lateral osteophytes was achieved.
• The technique avoided the need for drilling or injuring vertebral bodies.
• Immediate and sustained clinical improvement was observed in the majority of patients over a 2.5-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Anterior cervical discectomy with microscopic osteophyte removal is a safe and effective treatment.
• This method offers superior decompression while preserving vertebral body integrity.
• The technique provides significant and lasting clinical benefits for cervical spondylotic syndromes.