Minimizing Risks in Anterior Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy Using Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection: A Technical Report

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new ultrasound-guided hydrodissection technique to improve the safety of a minimally invasive cervical spine surgery.

Contribution

A novel ultrasound-guided hydrodissection technique is introduced to enhance safety during anterior endoscopic cervical discectomy.

Findings

Ultrasound guidance improves real-time visualization of key anatomical structures during surgery.

Hydrodissection creates a protective space, reducing the risk of tissue trauma and iatrogenic injury.

The combined technique allows for precise needle placement and safer surgical outcomes.

Abstract

Anterior endoscopic cervical discectomy (AECD) is a minimally invasive alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for treating cervical disc herniation. Despite its advantages, AECD poses risks to delicate anatomical structures, including the esophagus, recurrent laryngeal nerve, inferior thyroid artery, and carotid artery. This report introduces a novel ultrasound-guided hydrodissection technique designed to enhance the safety of AECD by improving visualization and reducing iatrogenic injury. By employing ultrasound imaging, key structures can be identified in real time, while hydrodissection creates a protective space, minimizing tissue trauma when advancing the needle. This technique allows precise needle placement and facilitates a safer surgical approach. The integration of ultrasound guidance with the hydrodissection technique has the potential to reduce complications and improve procedural accuracy, making it a valuable adjunct to AECD.

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