Multisegmental cervical spondylotic myelopathy and radiculopathy treated by multilevel oblique corpectomies without fusion.

OBJECTIVE

The description of the technique of multilevel oblique corpectomy (MOC) without fusion in the treatment of spondylotic myelopathy and radiculopathy and the analysis of the results of this technique from a series of 101 cases are presented.

METHODS

MOC is performed using an anterolateral approach with control of the vertebral artery. The vertebral bodies are drilled obliquely from the lateral side toward the opposite posterolateral corner. More than half of the vertebral bodies are preserved, and no fusion procedure is required. The series of patients from 1992 through 1997 included 54 men and 47 women, with an average age of 57.9 years, who presented with myelopathy (n = 66) or radiculopathy (n = 35). MOC was realized on one to five levels from C2-C3 to C7-T1. Follow-up data were obtained by performing dynamic roentgenography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging 2 months, 1 year, and 3 years after surgery.

RESULTS

The results (Japanese Orthopedic Association score) were improvement in 82% of the patients, worsening in 8%, and stabilization in 10%. Better results were observed in younger patients (<50 yr). No relation between results and duration of symptoms or number of levels could be established. One death occurred as a result of multiorgan failure. No late deterioration was observed; however, three patients with particular features showed delayed instability requiring fusion.

CONCLUSION

MOC is a safe and efficient technique. It must be applied for patients with anterior compression and straight or kyphotic axis of the spine. No fusion is required regardless of the number of levels, providing there are no soft discs and there is no preoperative instability.