Alternative technique in atypical spinal decompression: the use of the ultrasonic scalpel in paediatric achondroplasia.
Spinal stenosis can be a very disabling condition. Surgical decompression carries a risk of dural tear and neural injury, which is increased in patients with severe stenosis or an atypical anatomy. We present an unusual case of symptomatic stenosis secondary to achondroplasia presenting in a paediatric patient, and highlight a new surgical technique used to minimise the risk of dural and neural injury during decompression.
Department of Spinal Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon, UK.
Timothy
T
Woodacre
Department of Spinal Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon, UK.
Matthew
M
Sewell
Department of Spinal Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon, UK.
Andrew J
AJ
Clarke
Department of Spinal Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon, UK.
Mike
M
Hutton
D000130:Achondroplasia / Q000150:complications*; D000293:Adolescent; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery; D013130:Spinal Stenosis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014465:Ultrasonics / Q000295:instrumentation