Complications of open compared to minimally invasive lumbar spine decompression

• Published in: Journal of clinical neuroscience Vol. 18; no. 10; pp. 1360 - 1364
• Main Authors: Shih, Patrick, Wong, Albert P, Smith, Timothy R, Lee, Amy I, Fessler, Richard G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Scotland Elsevier Ltd 01-10-2011
• Subjects: Aged; CSF leak; Decompression, Surgical - adverse effects; Decompression, Surgical - methods; Female; Humans; Lumbar Vertebrae - pathology; Lumbar Vertebrae - surgery; Male; Microendoscopic decompression; Middle Aged; Minimally invasive spine surgery; Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures - adverse effects; Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures - methods; Neurology; Postoperative Complications - diagnosis; Postoperative Complications - prevention & control; Postoperative urinary retention; Retrospective Studies; Spinal Stenosis - pathology; Spinal Stenosis - surgery; Postoperative urinary retention; CSF leak; Microendoscopic decompression; Minimally invasive spine surgery
• ISSN: 0967-5868; 1532-2653
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2011.02.022

Abstract Minimally invasive modalities have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of neurogenic claudication. Direct comparisons, however, between complication rates of these newer techniques with open surgical techniques for lumbar decompression are lacking. This single-institution study examined neurogenic claudicants between August 2007 and June 2009. A total of 26 patients received open surgical decompression, and 23 patients microendoscopic decompression. Baseline demographic characteristics, peri-operative morbidity and mortality, length of hospital stay, and final disposition following hospitalization were recorded. Morbidity was divided into major and minor categories as defined by degree of requisite intervention and adverse impact on hospital stay. Average age, number of surgical levels, and pre-operative American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Index scores were similar in each group ( p > 0.05). While minimally invasive surgery may be associated with slightly longer operative times, there is decreased blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and likely decreased requirements for ancillary support services upon discharge.