What is Lateral Extracavitary Approach Surgery?
Many approaches have been introduced in spinal surgery to gain optimal access to the injured or diseased area, with minimal or no damage to surrounding tissues. There are three main approaches – anterior (from the front), posterior (from the back) and lateral (from the side). Because of the complexity of the structure of the spine, and potential complications involved with surgery, most of these approaches are very challenging to perform. Lateral extracavitary approach surgery is a surgical procedure that approaches the spine from the side. Through a single incision, it can access the vertebrae from different aspects (top, bottom and sides), avoiding additional incisions, a second operation and many complications.
Indications of Lateral Extracavitary Approach Surgery
Lateral extracavitary approach surgery is indicated to release compression on the spinal cord or spinal nerves as a result of trauma, degenerative disease, bone infection and tumor.
Procedure of Lateral Extracavitary Approach Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. You will lie on your side and your surgeon will make an incision to reach the diseased spinal region and then make a sharp turn in line with the direction of the ribs to resemble an L shape. This incision provides optimal visibility of the spinal cord and allows your surgeon to remove the cause for neural compression. The spine is then stabilized by fusing adjacent vertebral bones with the help of bone graft. This is supported by instrumentation. Once the surgery is complete, a drain may be placed and the wound is closed in layers.
Post-Operative Care for Lateral Extracavitary Approach Surgery
Following the surgery, you will be taken to the intensive care unit, where you will be closely monitored. On the second day after the procedure, a physical therapist will help improve your mobility. You may be discharged 3 to 5 days postoperatively.
Complications of Lateral Extracavitary Approach Surgery
As with all surgical procedures, lateral extracavitary approach spinal surgery may be associated with certain complications such as infection, loss of blood, pneumonia, leakage of cerebrospinal fluid, excess fluid-buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion) and collection of gas in the chest cavity (pneumothorax).
