[Minimally invasive approach for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy].

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the recent minimally invasive approach for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR).
METHODS: The recent literature at home and abroad concerning minimally invasive approach for CSR was reviewed and summarized.
RESULTS: There were two techniques of minimally invasive approach for CSR at present: percutaneous puncture techniques and endoscopic techniques. The degenerate intervertebral disc was resected or nucleolysis by percutaneous puncture technique if CSR was caused by mild or moderate intervertebral disc herniations. The cervical microendoscopic discectomy and foraminotomy was an effective minimally invasive approach which could provide a clear view. The endoscopy techniques were suitable to treat CSR caused by foraminal osteophytes, lateral disc herniations, local ligamentum flavum thickening and spondylotic foraminal stenosis.
CONCLUSION: The minimally invasive procedure has the advantages of simple handling, minimally invasive and low incidence of complications. But the scope of indications is relatively narrow at present.