Feasibility of unilateral hemilaminectomy utilizing a Williams retractor for the resection of intradural-extramedullary spinal neoplasms

Background While open approaches have historically been used in the surgical treatment of intradural-extramedullary spine tumors, minimally-invasive surgical (MIS) techniques are frequently applied to minimize post-operative complications associated with open surgery. Tubular retractor systems in particular have been employed in combination with the unilateral hemilaminectomy (UHL) approach. Here we describe the use of a Williams retractor as a safe and effective minimally-invasive alternative to tubular retractor systems with similar post-operative outcomes. Methods We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of eight patients who underwent unilateral hemilaminectomy using a Williams retractor for the minimally-invasive resection of intradural-extramedullary neoplasms at a large tertiary academic center from 2017 to 2019. Patient demographics, pathologic specimens, radiographic studies, and intraoperative parameters were collected and analyzed. Results In our series, gross total resection was achieved in all cases. Average operative time was 158 ± 40 minutes, the mean estimated blood loss (EBL) was 44.4 ± 30.4 mL, and mean length of stay was three days. All patients reported symptomatic improvement at follow-up as reported by Visual Analog Scale scores. Conclusion A Williams retractor yields similar outcomes with respect to post-operative pain, operative time, and EBL as it maintains the advantages of the UHL approach in the resection of intradural-extramedullary spine tumors while enhancing feasibility and providing significant cost savings.