ABSTRACT
In 1996, HD Jho described a microscopic anterior cervical foraminotomy procedure whereby the transverse process and uncovertebral joint were exposed and the decompression was performed through the gradual removal of the uncinate process. Standard anterior–posterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs allow visualization of the bony anatomy including the uncovertebral joint and foramina. The operation is performed with the patient under general anesthesia on a standard operating room table. The patient is positioned supine with the neck in a slight extension and a gel cushion behind the shoulders. The operative field of view includes the lateral aspect of the intervertebral disc, the lateral portion of the cephalad vertebral body, and the lateral portion of the caudad vertebral body and the uncinate process. The microscopic anterior cervical foraminotomy has been shown to be effective in relieving unilateral radiculopathy resulting from soft disc herniation and uncovertebral osteophytes.
