2023 Volume 14 Issue 8 Pages 1165-1172
Foraminal stenosis is usually approached from the posterolateral side on the affected side, but when the angle of approach from the posterolateral side is restricted, such as at the L5-S1 level, and spinal stenosis is complicated at the same level, the contralateral interlaminar approach may be more advantageous. We compared percutaneous full-endoscopic lumbar contralateral interlaminar foraminoplasty (PfELCIF) with conventional percutaneous full-endoscopic lumbar foraminoplasty (PfELF).
There were no cases of postoperative dysesthesia in either group. Enlargement ratio of the intervertebral foramina was significantly higher in PfELCIF at medial area, and significantly higher in PfELF at lateral area.
The contralateral interlaminar foraminoplasty is performed in a considerable deep area from the bone surface, which is possible with percutaneous full-endoscope. PfELCIF was as effective as PfELF in clinical results. We consider that PfELCIF is a useful option for patients with lumbar spinal and foraminal stenosis at the L5-S1 level, especially when the main site of the foraminal stenosis is center to medial.
