Transfacet Pedicle Sparing Approach in High Lumbar Disc Herniation

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The authors evaluate results of transfacet pedicle sparing approach for high lumbar disc herniation to avoid injury of nerve roots and the cauda equina. METHODS: Seven patients treated by transfacet pedicle sparing approach for high lumbar disc herniation were reviewed. Some thoracolumbar kyphotic patients on whom posterior procedures underwent additional posterior lumbar interbody fusion and posterolateral fusion using the mesh cage and spinal instrumentation. RESULTS: Clinical symptoms improved in all seven patients. Rigid spinal stability and correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis could be performed by the spinal instrumentation methods. CONCLUSION: The advantages of the transfacet pedicle sparing approach are less invasive, easy decompression the nerve root directly and avoidance of the risk of injury to the cauda equina while the dura is being retracted. Additionally, thoracolumbar kyphosis could be corrected. Transfacet pedicle sparing approach is an useful procedure in the surgical treatment of high lumbar disc herniation.