William Clifton1, David Williams2, Mark Pichelmann3. 1. Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA. clifton.william@mayo.edu. 2. Marine Corps Air Station, Beaufort, SC, USA. 3. Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cervical radiculopathy from uncovertebral joint hypertrophy and foraminal stenosis is a common indication for anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF). Often, the uncinate hypertrophy extends lateral to the foramen and impinges on the nerve close to the vertebral artery as it travels in between the transverse foramina. METHOD: Using an injected cadaveric specimen to highlight the vital neurovascular and bony structures pertinent to this procedure, we demonstrate the technical details of complete uncinatectomy for cervical foraminal stenosis. CONCLUSION: Total uncinatectomy is a useful adjunct during ACDF for complete foraminal decompression in cases of uncovertebral joint hypertrophy.
BACKGROUND:Cervical radiculopathy from uncovertebral joint hypertrophy and foraminal stenosis is a common indication for anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF). Often, the uncinate hypertrophy extends lateral to the foramen and impinges on the nerve close to the vertebral artery as it travels in between the transverse foramina. METHOD: Using an injected cadaveric specimen to highlight the vital neurovascular and bony structures pertinent to this procedure, we demonstrate the technical details of complete uncinatectomy for cervical foraminal stenosis. CONCLUSION: Total uncinatectomy is a useful adjunct during ACDF for complete foraminal decompression in cases of uncovertebral joint hypertrophy.