Endoscope-Assisted Excision of a Juxtafacet Cyst in an Adolescent Athlete: A Case Report

Abstract

Background Juxtafacet cysts (JFCs) are a cause of back and radicular pain that can be treated conservatively and operatively. Such strategies include lumbosacral brace, epidural injection, open surgery, and minimally invasive surgery; although surgical treatment is usually reserved for unsuccessful conservative treatment. The role of minimally invasive surgery in athletic youth with JFCs has yet to be determined.

Patients/Material and Methods The patient is a 16-year-old basketball player with a JFC. We performed endoscope-assisted cystectomy.

Results Endoscope-assisted JFC excision immediately and completely resolved the patient's lower back and leg pain with no recurrence of symptoms 4 years after surgery.

Conclusion We suggest that JFCs of the lumbar spine be a part of the differential diagnosis in young patients with back and radicular pain. Furthermore, we recommend that endoscope-assisted surgery be employed in the treatment of JFCs in young athletes.

Keywords

adolescent - athlete - endoscope - juxtafacet cyst - lumbar spine

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