Mini-open removal of extradural foraminal tumors of the lumbar spine.

Spinal extradural foraminal neoplasms are uncommon lesions that are traditionally resected via an open laminectomy and facetectomy approach. In this paper the authors present their mini-open approach for the removal of 3 such tumors. The authors retrospectively reviewed 3 patients with extradural schwannoma who underwent mini-open resection and fusion between June 2006 and July 2007. Clinical data, tumor characteristics, and outcomes were analyzed. All 3 patients underwent successful mini-open treatment of their spinal neoplasms. Postoperative MR imaging demonstrated complete resection in 2 cases and subtotal resection in 1 case. Extradural foraminal neoplasms can be safely and effectively treated with mini-open techniques. Reductions in blood loss, hospitalization, and tissue disruption may be potential benefits of this approach.