Multilayer Dura Reconstruction After Thoracoscopic Microdiscectomy: Technique and Results

Erwin M. J. Cornips*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Anterior transthoracic approaches, including thoracoscopic microdiscectomy (TMD), are the preferred techniques for central, broad-based, calcified thoracic disc herniations (TDHs). Dural defects due to manipulation or transdural extension may create a potentially life-threatening subarachnoid-pleural fistula. We evaluate a fast, sutureless technique for reconstructing the dura. METHODS: We analyzed 476 anterior transthoracic approaches for TDHs (437 TMDs, 31 mini-thoracotomies, 7 transaxillary approaches, and 1 sternotomy). Dural defects were closed using an onlay dura substitute, fibrin glue, an autologous fat graft, and another layer of fibrin glue topped by an absorbable gelatin sponge. A chest tube was used to provide a water seal, and the use of external lumbar drains (ELDs) was discontinued in recent years. RESULTS: We encountered 35 dural defects (7.35%), including 27 in 279 procedures (9.67%) in the first 10 years and 8 in 197 (4.06%) in the past 6 years. Five defects were large, 23 were relatively small, and 5 had an intact arachnoid layer, likely preventing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) egress. Two CSF leaks in the early series were overlooked intraoperatively; 1 patient died following widespread cortical venous thrombosis, whereas the other merely had a headache that disappeared within 1 week. Overall, an ELD was inserted in 3 of 5 large defects and in 17 of 23 small defects; however, in the past 6 years, an ELD was inserted in no large defects and in only 1 of 5 small defects. The technique was successful in all but 1 patient, who underwent reoperation using a larger fat graft. CONCLUSIONS: Dural defects encountered during anterior transthoracic approaches to TDHs can be reconstructed endoscopically, while avoiding the use of an ELD in most cases.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)E691-E698
Number of pages8
JournalWorld Neurosurgery
Volume109
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018

Keywords

  • Cerebrospinal fluid leak
  • Dura repair
  • Dural tear
  • Intradural disc herniation
  • Subarachnoid-pleural fistula
  • Thoracic disc herniation
  • Treatment
  • HERNIATED THORACIC DISCS
  • SUBARACHNOID-PLEURAL FISTULA
  • OF-THE-LITERATURE
  • INCIDENTAL DUROTOMY
  • SURGICAL-MANAGEMENT
  • SPINE SURGERY
  • REPAIR
  • MYELOPATHY
  • TEARS

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