Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Prevailing techniques of dural closure in endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) for intradural extramedullary (IDEM) tumor excision increase the steep learning curve and operative time. We aimed to assess the efficacy of augmented duroplasty with artificial dura and share our initial experience of ESS for IDEM excision. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 18 (n = 18) consecutive patients of IDEM tumors operated by ESS using Destandau's endoscopic system. The pre-operative, post-operative, and at the latest follow-up clinical status were recorded in terms of Nurick's grades and the Oswestry Disability Index. Immediate post-operative complications and intraoperative findings were noted from hospital information system and patient records. RESULTS: The mean (+/- SD) age of patients was 40.3 +/- 14.9 (range 19-64) years, with M: F ratio of 2:1. All the lesions were intradural and present at lumber (n = 6), thoracic (n = 9), and cervical (n = 3) regions. The average duration of surgery, blood loss, hospital stay, and duration of follow-up were 157 +/- 45.3 (90-240) min, 168.8 +/- 78.8 (30-300) mL, 4.29 +/- 1.4 (2-7) days, and 19.3 +/- 7.2 (7-36) months, respectively. There were no CSF leaks, wound-related complications, or material-induced adverse events. CONCLUSION: In endoscopic IDEM excision, dural closure with artificial dura is efficient in preventing CSF leak. It shortens the steep learning curve and improves the surgical outcome due to technical ease.