The Value of Intraoperative Ultrasonography in Cervical Corpectomy: Assessment by Postoperative Computed Tomography

Abstract

We conclude that IUS is helpful and reliable in performing a properly centered, thorough, lateral decompression in cervical corpectomy. A limited corpectomy can be started under visual guidance and then enlarged after IUS findings until complete decompression of the neural elements has been achieved. This approach avoids the problems of asymmetry, inadequate decompression, and excessive bony removal that could lead to endangerment of the vertebral artery and possible failure of the reconstruction. The accuracy of the IUS was confirmed in this study by postoperative CT.