A Finite Element Investigation into the Effects of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy one of the most common diseases of the vertebral column frequently caused by degenerative processes (1). The degenerative changes that occur in the cervical spine result in compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots leading to radicular pain and numbness. Posterior surgical approaches for the management of cervical spondylosis are well established and among the oldest spinal procedures known. Recent advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques have produced the same surgical result while minimizing bone and ligament resection as well as preserving the surrounding tissue (1). These surgical advancements have shown clinical improvements such as a decrease in post operative pain and improved clinical outcomes (2) however, the biomechanical impact of cervical microendoscopic decompression for stenosis (MEDS) is unknown. In this study we will quantify the change in intersegmental motion of the cervical spine in response to a decompressive laminotomy at C4-6 using the standard open procedure and the new MEDS technique.