Multilevel oblique corpectomy without fusion: our experience in 48 patients.

STUDY DESIGN: The authors provide their results in performing multilevel oblique corpectomy for degenerative spondylotic myelopathy in 48 patients. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of the multilevel oblique corpectomy when applied in selected cases. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: The technique of multilevel oblique corporectomies for treatment of cervical spondylogenetic myeloradiculopathies allows anterolateral access to the cervical spine so that the spinal canal and conjugate foramen can be widened at more than one level, without the need for vertebral stabilization. METHODS: During a 7-year period, multilevel oblique corpectomy was performed in 48 consecutive patients for degenerative spondylotic myelopathy. The outcomes were analyzed according to the Japanese Orthopaedic Association classification modified to Western customs, and according to Nurick's scale 1 month, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery. Spinal stability was evaluated in all patients by plain radiograph films of the cervical spine, lateral views in flexion and extension, on discharge, 1 month and 1 year after operation. RESULTS: Significant clinical improvement occurred in 29 patients with a complete functional recovery in 22; moderate improvement was achieved in 12 patients; neurological status remained stable in 5, and it worsened in 2. All patients showed spinal stability. CONCLUSIONS: Multilevel oblique corpectomy was found to be a safe technique that guarantees good results in terms of both regression of clinical symptoms and long-term spinal stability.