The anterolateral partial vertebrectomy approach for ventrally located cervical intramedullary cavernous angiomas

Abstract

Objective: We report three cases with ventral cervical intramedullary cavernous angiomas. An anterolateral partial vertebrectomy was performed to surgically approach and successfully resect these lesions.

Materials and methods: All three patients presented with numbness in the upper extremities and investigation revealed a cavernous angioma on the ventral aspect of the spinal cord in each case. The lesion was exposed by an anterolateral partial vertebrectomy in all cases. Postoperative stabilization was achieved by using autografted iliac bone in all patients. In two patients, locking screws and plates were also used.

Results: Complete resection of the cavernous angioma was performed in all patients. There was symptomatic relief in all cases, and there was no postoperative morbidity.

Conclusion: Anterolateral partial vertebrectomy provides direct exposure and is probably an ideal approach for selected cases with ventrally located intramedullary cavernous angiomas.