Foraminoplasty is a type of endoscopic surgery used to surgery the spine. Foramen is a general name given to canal-shaped holes in bone structures. Spinal Foramen has two on the right and left at each spinal level.
Spinal nerves and root nerves exit from this structure with a proper distribution to the segment. The spinal nerve enters the foramen structure approximately one and a half cm (it may show variations) above by separating from the spinal cord and exits by entering the slight S-shaped foramen 2-3 cm. Since the foramen is a canal surrounded by the pedicle and cassette of an upper vertebra, the pedicle and the pedicle of the lower vertebrae are invaded by the problems developing in these structures, causing compression of the nerve. This condition is defined as “Foraminal stenosis-Foraminal Stenosis”.
If the cause of foraminal stenosis is not eliminated, it impairs the function of the relevant nerve, for example, L4-5 level left foramenal stenosis Due to left L4-5 nerve dysfunction, pain in the form of sciatica spreading from around the knee and thigh to the foot, loss of sensation and muscle loss in severe cases. causes loss of power.
Treatment of foraminal stenosis, evacuation of the occupied structures (discectomy, fasciitis cyst excision, cassette osteophyte excision) Expansion of the foramen is possible with foraminoplasty.
Foraminoplasty is possible with surgical methods using the Transforaminal route. Traditional open and microscopic methods cannot clean the inside of my jersey. With foraminoscopy, foramen structures can be cleaned and nerve compression can be relieved by using an optical camera in the foramen and a surgical working channel.
Endoscopic Foraminoplasty does not disrupt the spinal architecture and does not cause instability, so fixation between the vertebrae with a cage and screws is not required. Therefore, it is a surgery that does not require fusion. Endoscopic foraminoplasty is very effective in eliminating stenosis that develops in spinal fusion surgeries that are often neglected. Endoscopic Foraminoplasty is a successful and effective method in the treatment of Failed Back Spine Surgery.
If necessary, it can be applied under local anesthesia in patients who cannot receive anesthesia in a hole smaller than one cm. There is little to no bleeding. You can return to normal life on the same day.