Limited exposure to preserve stability and achieve complete excision of limited dorsal myeloschisis — the “Skip-Hop Laminectomy” technique: a technical note

Objective The fibroneural stalk of an LDM has variable thickness, complexity, and length, which can span 5 to 6 vertebral segments from its skin attachment to its “merge point” with the dorsal spinal cord. Therefore, complete resection may require extensive multi-level laminotomies. In this technical note, a modification of the procedure is presented that avoids long segment laminectomies while ensuring complete excision of long LDM stalks. Results An illustrative case of resection of LDM is presented using skip laminectomies. The technique ensures complete removal of the stalk, thus reducing the risk of future intradural dermoid development, while at the same time minimizes the risk for delayed kyphotic deformity. Conclusions A technique of “skip-hop” proximal and distal short segment laminectomies in cases of LDM optimizes the objectives of complete stalk resection with preservation of spinal integrity.