Microsurgery in anterior approach to cervical discs.

Abstract

Removal of intervertebral discs and osteophytes with the aid of an operating microscope was performed in ten patients suffering from cervical spondylotic radicular or radiculomyelopathic syndromes, using an anterior approach. The method permits more complete removal of disc, posterior and lateral osteophytes, without the necessity of drilling or otherwise injuring the vertebral bodies. In five patients, a bone graft was inserted into the vacated space after disc removal. Clinical improvement in most cases was immediate and maintained during a two and a half year follow-up.