Detection and Analysis of Perfusion Pressure through Measuring Oxygen Saturation and Requirement of Dural Incision Decompression after Laminectomy

BACKGROUND: Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) can continue and transform long after the time of initial injury. Preventing secondary injury after SCI is one of the most significant challenges, and early intervention to return the blood flow at the injury site can minimize the likelihood of secondary injury. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether laminectomy can achieve the spinal cord blood flow by measuring the spinal blood oxygen saturation intraoperatively without the presence of light. METHODS: Between June and August 2021, eight patients were admitted after traumatic spinal cord injury for surgical treatment. We explored the effectiveness of laminectomy and whether the patients required further procedures or not. We used a brain oxygen saturation monitor at the spine injury site under dark conditions. RESULTS: Eight cervical trauma patients, six males and two females, underwent laminectomy decompression. Three patients' ASIA grade improved by one level, and one patient showed slight motor-sensory improvement. Oxygen saturation was in the normal range. CONCLUSION: Performing bony decompression can show good results. Therefore, finding an examination method to confirm the improvement of blood perfusion by measuring oxygen saturation at the injury site after laminectomy is essential to avoid other complications.