[Treatment of spinal metastases by posterolateral approach].

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the value of spondylectomy, circumferential decompression, and spinal reconstruction for the treatment of spinal metastases using posterolater approach. METHODS:Thirteen patients with spinal metastases were treated by spondylectomy, circumferential spinal cord decompression, and spinal reconstruction with pedicle fixation and polymethyl methacrylate. The outcome was assessed by pain relief and the improvement in neurologic symptoms. RESULTS:Pain relief was obvious in all patients. Neurologic symptoms improved to various degrees in 6 patients. CONCLUSION:Spondylectomy, spinal cord circumferential decompression and spinal reconstruction with pedicle fixation and polymethyl methacrylate using posterolateral approach are effective surgical method for spinal metastases.