MODIFIED ROBINSON-SMITH PROCEDURE FOR THE TREATMENT OF CERVICAL RADICULOPATHY

In the present study, a modified Robinson-Smith procedure was used sur gery for cervical radiculopathy in 52 patients. Thirty-one one-level a nd 21 two-level operations were performed. All patients were followed up between 1 and 3 years (mean 23 months) after surgery with a clinica l evaluation by an independent investigator including a radiological e xamination. In 26 patients the postoperative result was classified as excellent, in 23 the result was good, in 2 satisfactory, while one pat ient was unchanged compared to the preoperative examination. No patien t developed worsening of symptoms after surgery. Of 18 patients with d uration of symptoms of more than 4 years, 16 demonstrated markedly imp rovement. No permanent postoperative complications were seen. A modifi ed Robinson-Smith procedure appears to be safe and reliable and can be recommended in surgery for cervical radiculopathy.