Postero-Lateral Approach for Soft Lateral Cervical Disc Herniation: A Neglected Technique

Background: The ideal approach to the treatment of soft cervical disc herniation remains controversial. Recent reports emphasize several variations of the anterior cervical approaches, including the introduction of the instrumentation techniques. Most neuro-surgeons seem to be less familiar with the posterior approach. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the effectiveness and the morbidities associated with treating soft lateral cervical disc herniation via a posterior approach. Methods: Eight patients presented with cervical radiculopathy, and the cervical MRI showed a soft lateral disc herniation, underwent a posterior cervical foramino laminotomy for excision of the herniated disc fragments. Results: All the patients presented with unilateral radicular symptoms and signs with C 5 and C 6 were the most commonly affected. Sensory manifestations exceeded the motor and reflex changes. Improvement of the sensory symptom was evident in all cases in the short term period, with motor improvement in the long term follow up, and no morbidity. The mean time of hospitalization was five days. Conclusion: The posterior foramino-laminotomy is safe and effective procedure in the treatment of patients with soft postero-lateral cervical disc herniation without effects on the stability of the spine.