Are Skip Laminectomy and Oblique Corpectomy Effective Options to Treat Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy While Preserving Motion? Results of a Scoping Review

Study DesignScoping Literature Review.ObjectiveThe aim of this literature review is to examine the results of both skip laminectomy and oblique corpectomy in the setting of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).MethodsA scoping review of the relevant literature examining the efficacy of cervical skip laminectomy and oblique corpectomy in patients with DCM was conducted using the Medline database. Our review strategy aimed at answering two research questions. #1: Do clinical outcomes differ between patients undergoing cervical laminoplasty vs skip laminectomy in the setting of myelopathy. #2: Which outcomes can oblique corpectomy provide, and how its related complication profile differs from other motion preserving procedures? What is the incidence of persistent myelopathy requiring reoperation following oblique corpectomy?ResultsOur query identified 43 potentially relevant articles. For questions 1, 3 were deemed relevant to the research question posed. For question 2, 6 articles were deemed relevant to the research question posed. Both cervical skip laminectomy and cervical oblique corpectomy are viable options for the treatment of DCM. Skip laminectomy compared to laminoplasty resulted in at least equivalent results in regard to functional outcomes and retained range of motion. Oblique corpectomy in appropriately indicated patients results in improved functional outcomes. It carries the unique increased risk of temporary and permanent Horner's syndrome compared to other motion preserving cervical procedures.ConclusionAdditional well designed comparative studies are required to draw firm conclusions in the treatment of cervical myelopathy with these alternative motion preserving techniques.