RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Laminoplasty for Cervical Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation in Patients With Cervical Spondylosis and Fusion: A Technical Note
JF Ochsner Journal
JO Ochsner J
FD O. P. Jindal Global University
SP 38
OP 42
DO 10.31486/toj.18.0096
VO 19
IS 1
A1 Denis, Daniel J.
A1 Niu, Tianyi
A1 Champagne, Pierre-Olivier
A1 Lu, Daniel C.
YR 2019
UL http://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/19/1/38.abstract
AB Background: Epidural spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implantation is a commonly used strategy for treating refractory neuropathic pain, but the literature on the technical aspects of cervical SCS surgery remains scarce. Degenerative cervical stenosis and prior fusion surgery are relatively frequent conditions in this population, and the optimal method for cervical lead placement among such patients has not been established. Decompressive laminectomy may be required for cervical SCS placement in the presence of spinal stenosis. However, extensive decompression may increase the rate of lead migration and destabilize the spine, especially when performed above an existing fusion.Case Series: We present a surgical technique for cervical SCS implantation and the cases of 3 patients with significant spinal stenosis and/or prior fusion. In these patients, the paddle lead placement was safely achieved using cervical laminoplasty techniques.Conclusion: In addition to stabilizing the epidural paddle lead, laminoplasty offers several potential advantages compared to decompression alone.