A Novel Technique for Cervical Microscopic Foraminotomy Utilizing Spinous Process Splitting: Microscopic Mini-Open Foraminotomy.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we present "microscopic mini-open foraminotomy (MicroMOF)" as a new, less invasive method for posterior cervical foraminotomy. TECHNICAL NOTE Using surgical microscope guidance, the spinous process is hemi-split, and the posterior muscle is detached from the laminar subperiosteal surface. Bony resection is then performed obliquely from medial posterior to lateral anterior under lateral-tilted surgical field exposure. MicroMOF has been performed successfully for cervical radiculopathy and cervical spondylotic amyotrophy, which achieved postoperative symptom improvement with few complications. CONCLUSIONS: The novel MicroMOF foraminotomy technique has been found to protect the nerve root and vertebral artery and help preserve muscle and cervical facet joint bone.