Midterm Follow-up Results of Anterior Cervical Microforaminotomy

Kim, Young Gyu; Lee, Jong Sun; Park, Moon Sun; Ha, Ho Gyun

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
We have previously reported excellent early clinical results of anterior cervical microforaminotomy(ACMF) for patients who have cervical radiculopathy from either disc herniation or foraminal stenosis. ACMF is being accepted as a minimal invasive functional spinal surgery, but their long-term outcome is unknown. The goal of this study is to evaluate the midterm clinical and radiological results of ACMF. METHODS: We had undertaken a questionnaire survey and retrospective analysis of 42 patients with cervical radiculopathy who had undergone ACMF from 1998 to 2001. Clinical data from 33 patients(one-level operation in 20 patients, two-level in 13 patients) and radiological data from 21 patients were analysed. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients answered for the questionnaires. Mean follow-up was 48 months(ranged from 26 to 64 months). The surgical outcome was excellent in 18 patients(54.6%) and good in 11 patients(33.3%). One patient showed poor outcome, but there was no case of recurrence, reoperation or additive surgery. Twenty-four patients(79%) satisfied with the results of their surgery. On the average, the loss of disc height was 1.02mm(18% of preoperative disc height), average increase of displacement was 0.83mm, decrease of sagittal plane angulation was 2.03 degrees. All the patients maintained stability during follow-up period. CONCLUSION: In the midterm, ACMF appears to be safe and effective method for the treatment of cervical radiculopathy. To prevent disc height loss and retrolisthesis, skilled disc-preserving technique of ACMF is required and modified technique preserving anterior part of uncovertebral joint may be advantageous.