Lumbar spinous process-splitting technique for ligamentum flavum cyst removal: the first use in Europe.

Background Laminotomy for lumbar stenosis is a well-defined procedure and represents a routine in every neurosurgical department. It is a common experience that the mono- or bilateral paraspinal muscles detachment together with supra and interspinous ligaments injury can lead to postoperative pain. In literature has been reported the application at the level of the lumbar spine of a minimally invasive technique defined as lumbar spinous process-splitting technique (LSPST). Methods In the current study, we present a case series of 12 patients that underwent LSPSL from September 2019 to April 2020. Two patient suffering from ligamentum flavum cyst, 8 patients with single level lumbar canal stenosis (LCS) and two patients with two-level LCS. The approach was mini-open, with reduced soft tissue dissection and without paraspinal muscles injury. Moreover, a novel morphological classification of postoperative muscle atrophy is proposed as well as a volumetric analysis of the decompression achieved. Conclusion At our knowledge, this is the first description of this surgical technique and the first LSPSL case series in Europe. Furthermore, cases of ligamentum flavum cyst removal using this safe and effective technique are not yet reported. Abbreviations Lumbar canal stenosis (LCS), lumbar spinous process-splitting technique (LSPST), minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS).