J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2002 Nov;32(5):431-435.

Transfacet Pedicle Sparing Approach in High Lumbar Disc Herniation

• Kim JW
• Lee SG
• Jeong JH
• Yoo CJ
• Kim WK
• Kim YB

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.

Keyword

High lumbar disc herniation; Transfacet; Thoracolumbar; Kyphosis; PLIF

MeSH Terms

Cauda Equina
Decompression
Humans
Kyphosis