Intraoperative navigation-guided resection of anomalous transverse processes in patients with Bertolotti's syndrome.
Publication Title
Surg Neurol Int
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2017
Keywords
Bertolotti's syndrome; pseudoarticulation; sacrum; transverse process
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Bertolotti's syndrome is characterized by enlargement of the transverse process at the most caudal lumbar vertebra with a pseudoarticulation between the transverse process and sacral ala. Here, we describe the use of intraoperative three-dimensional image-guided navigation in the resection of anomalous transverse processes in two patients with Bertolotti's syndrome.
CASE DESCRIPTIONS: Two patients diagnosed with Bertolotti's syndrome who had undergone the above-mentioned procedure were identified. The patients were 17- and 38-years-old, and presented with severe, chronic low back pain that was resistant to conservative treatment. Imaging revealed lumbosacral transitional vertebrae at the level of L5-S1, which was consistent with Bertolotti's syndrome. Injections of the pseudoarticulations resulted in only temporary symptomatic relief. Thus, the patients subsequently underwent O-arm neuronavigational resection of the bony defects. Both patients experienced immediate pain resolution (documented on the postoperative notes) and remained asymptomatic 1 year later.
CONCLUSION: Intraoperative three-dimensional imaging and navigation guidance facilitated the resection of anomalous transverse processes in two patients with Bertolotti's syndrome. Excellent outcomes were achieved in both patients.
Clinical Institute
Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)
Specialty/Research Institute
Orthopedics
Specialty/Research Institute
Neurosciences
Specialty/Research Institute
Surgery
