Posterior microendoscopic surgical approach for the degenerative cervical spine.

We describe the advantages and clarify the technical key points of a microendoscopic, minimally invasive technique to the posterior surgical approach for cervical degenerative disease. The authors studied the microendoscopic posterior approach using the METRx system in both cadaver models and in clinical cases. This new technique needs only a small surgical route thus reducing damage to the paraspinous muscles. Moreover, this technique provides a clear view of the operating points, because of the oblique view angle of the endoscope. This technique is feasible for not only radiculopathy but also myelopathy caused by segmental canal stenosis. Posterior cervical decompression with this system is technically feasible and should be beneficial for reducing post-operative morbidity and spine deformity. This report deals with cases of cervical radiculopathy and segmental canal stenosis operated on with this system as well as the key points of this surgical procedure.