Posteriorly approached cervical endoscopy

Abstract

Posterior cervical foraminotomy is a well-known surgical procedure for patients with radiculopathy. Nowadays, improved surgical techniques and instruments enable minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy. Minimizing disruption of posterior cervical structures during the procedures may improve the short-term and long-term outcomes of the posterior approaching surgery. In this chapter we are going to introduce posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy and foraminotomy (PECF), and show clinical and radiological outcomes. PECF is indicated for patient with cervical unilateral radiculopathy which is confined to one to three levels. Preconditions are minimal degeneration at both disc and facet joint. Good surgical outcomes can be expected when PECF is performed for patients with appropriate indications. PECF may serve as a good alternative surgical technique with equivalent outcome to the conventional ACDF for patients with unilateral radiculopathy.