title: [Multisegmental posterior cervical fusion with en bloc laminectomy--surgical technique].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In patients with cervical spinal stenosis, the posterior laminectomy represents a surgical alternative to anterior procedures. Whereas the majority of surgeons prefer anterior procedures to treat mono- to three-segmental pathologies, posterior procedures have several advantages if the pathology includes four or more segments.
  
  
  METHODS
  In general, the indications for a posterior laminectomy resemble those for anterior procedures. Specifically patients with multisegmental pathologies benefit from a shorter operative time as well as reduced perioperative morbidity.
  
  
  METHODS
  A midline incision is made and followed by subperiostal exposure of the cervical spine. Facet decortication and screw hole preparation can be performed if a fusion is required. The lamina is now separated from the lateral mass using a high-speed burr and elevated en bloc from the dura. The fusion can now be completed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The posterior en bloc laminectomy with or without fusion represents a viable alternative to anterior procedures in patients with a cervical spinal canal stenosis. It often is the technique of choice for treating more than 3 levels.
authors: Orthopädische Universitätsklinik, Otto-von-Guericke Universität, Magdeburg.
authors: P D
authors: PD
authors: Trobisch
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007796:Laminectomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013117:Spinal Cord Compression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013130:Spinal Stenosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome