Introduction: Hemilaminectomy has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional laminectomy for intradural-extramedullary (IDEM) spinal tumor resections, offering reduced postoperative complications while preserving spinal stability. This study aims to assess postoperative outcomes, focusing on symptom improvement and resection success rates.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 15 patients who underwent hemilaminectomy for IDEM spinal tumors between 2020 and 2022. Data were collected on preoperative symptoms, tumor location, resection volume, surgical complications, and postoperative outcomes. Fisher’s Exact test was used to compare pre- and postoperative symptom status.
Results: The results demonstrated remarkable improvements in key clinical outcomes. Of the 15 patients, 73% (n=11) achieved complete tumor resection, with a median hospital stay of 7 days. Symptom improvement was observed in mobility (66.7%, p < 0.001), balance (50%, p = 0.004), and sensory deficits (90%, p < 0.001). Significant pain relief was reported by 71.4% of patients (p < 0.001). Importantly, 80% of patients with preoperative weakness showed improvement (p = 0.008), and 66.7% of those with numbness experienced substantial relief (p < 0.001). Postoperative complications were minimal, with only one patient requiring additional intervention. The cohort's diversity in tumor types, including meningiomas, schwannomas, and metastatic lesions, demonstrated the versatility of the hemilaminectomy approach.
Conclusion : Hemilaminectomy for IDEM tumors offers a highly effective, minimally invasive alternative, delivering substantial symptom relief, high rates of complete resection, and short hospital stays. These findings support hemilaminectomy as a viable and preferable approach for managing IDEM tumors, with the potential to improve patient quality of life while minimizing surgical risk.
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