Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2009 , Vol 19 , Num 3
Cervical Anterior Microforaminotomy
Cumhur KILINÇER, Osman ŞİMŞEK
Trakya Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Beyin ve Sinir Cerrahisi Anabilim Dalı, Edirne, Türkiye Cervical anterior microforaminotomy is defined as a mono- or multisegmental unilateral direct resection of an offending lesion, either a posterolateral spondylotic spur or a disc fragment compressing the nerve root, from an anterior bony window while maintaining the form and function of the intervertebral disc of the affected level. The technique can be performed microsurgically or endoscopically. The technique is performed by exposition of the uncovertebral area under longus colli muscle on the affected side, drilling of the uncinate process and the most lateral parts of the neighboring vertebral edges without entering the disc interspace. Uncinate osteophytes and disc herniations can be removed using that window. The advantages of this technique are the direct access to the anteriorly located offending lesion, the direct decompression of the affected nerve root, and the preservation of the disc with avoidance of a fusion procedure. This surgery is technically demanding and requires meticulous work. Excess bony removal may cause instability. Although the technique is not common yet, published results of the cervical anterior foraminotomy are excellent, and has shown to be equal or superior to those of classical anterior cervical procedures. Anahtar Kelimeler : Anterior microforaminotomy, Cervical vertebra, Intervertebral disc, radiculopathy