Implantation of Surgical Electrodes for Spinal Cord Stimulation: Comparison of Classical Laminotomy Technique Versus a Minimal Invasive Unilateral Technique Concerning Postoperative Outcome

摘要

In this paper, the postoperative outcome is compared between two surgical techniques to insert surgical, plate electrodes at thoracic level. In a prospective, single blind study, a Classical Midline Laminotomy technique (CML) is compared with a Minimal Invasive unilateral Technique (MIT). Both groups count ten patients divided at random. The postoperative pain was measured by a desinterested third party the first and third day after electrode implantation, using the VAS score. Length of hospital stay was compared in both groups. Ability of mobilisation of the patients was compared and the patients were asked if they would, if necessary, undergo the same procedure again. In all comparisons, the MIT group scored significantly better. So a minimal invasive technique has indeed some advantages to the midline laminotomy.