Applied Surgical Anatomy in Full-Endoscopic Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy

Abstract

Posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy (FE-PCF) has emerged as an alternative to ACDF or open posterior foraminotomy for treating cervical radiculopathy caused by foraminal stenosis or herniated discs. In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of the surgically applied anatomy relevant to the FE-PCF. The procedure involves using advanced endoscopic visualization and surgical instruments to achieve precise decompression of the affected nerve root. Therefore, the authors summarize the key features of posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy, including its advantages over traditional open surgery, such as lower complication rates, reduced tissue disruption, and faster recovery times. They employ illustrative step-by-step instructions that the novice endoscopic spine surgeon can employ to execute the posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy safely and effectively.

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