facetectomy
Pronunciation: fah-set-EK-tuh-mee
Surgical removal of facet joints to decompress neural structures and access the spinal canal.
Full Definition
Facetectomy is a surgical procedure involving the partial or complete removal of the facet joints (zygapophyseal joints) of the spine. This technique is commonly employed during decompressive spinal surgery to access compressed neural structures, remove bone spurs, or prepare for spinal fusion procedures. While facetectomy provides excellent neural decompression, it also removes important stabilizing structures of the spine, often necessitating spinal instrumentation and fusion to prevent postoperative instability. The extent of facetectomy must be carefully planned to balance adequate decompression with preservation of spinal stability.
Usage
Usage note: Specify unilateral vs. bilateral and extent (partial vs. complete).
In Context
- "Bilateral facetectomy was performed at L4-L5 to achieve adequate root decompression." — Operative note
- "The extent of facetectomy required supplemental posterior fusion." — Surgical planning documentation