Pathological Patterns and Technical Considerations in Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Foraminotomy for Fusion-Segment Radicular Pain

Purpose

This study aimed to describe the predominant pathological patterns observed intraoperatively, the endoscopic decompression techniques used, and the clinical outcomes of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar foraminotomy (TELF) for fusion-segment radicular pain. Patients and methods: This retrospective descriptive case series included 14 consecutive patients who underwent TELF for unilateral radicular pain caused by foraminal pathology within a previously fused lumbar segment. The compressive pathology was assessed preoperatively using magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan. Then, it was confirmed or further characterized intraoperatively via direct endoscopic visualization. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and modified MacNab criteria during a 12-month follow-up period.