Full Endoscopic Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy and Discectomy: Technical Note and Institutional Experience

Background: Cervical radiculopathy caused by a foraminal disc herniation is a common clinical condition that may require surgical decompression when conservative treatments fail. Full Endoscopic Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy and Discectomy (FE-PCFD) is an emerging minimally invasive technique that offers direct decompression with reduced soft-tissue damage. Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcomes, technical considerations, and safety profile of FE-PCFD in patients with cervical radiculopathy at our institution. Material and Methods: A retrospective review of 26 patients undergoing full endoscopic posterior cervical foraminotomy and discectomy over 1 year was conducted. Inclusion criteria were cervical radiculopathy refractory to non-surgical management, with complete clinical and imaging records. Patients were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) for arm pain and the Neck Disability Index (NDI) preoperatively, on postoperative day 1, and day 14. Surgical details, complications, and the need for revision surgery were documented. Results: The mean patient age was 40.42 years. The C6–C7 level was most commonly affected (65.4%). Significant pain reduction was noted postoperatively (VAS improvement, P < 0.001), and NDI scores improved from a preoperative mean of 49.77–16.77 on day 14 ( P < 0.001). Motor improvement was observed in 93.3% of patients with preoperative deficits. One patient (3.8%) developed new motor weakness, and one required revision surgery. The average operative time was 80.7 min, and the mean hospital stay was 2.69 days. Conclusion: FE-PCFD is safe and effective for treating lateral cervical disc herniations and foraminal stenosis, providing substantial pain relief and functional recovery with minimal complications.