Frykholm Procedure

Last edited and medically reviewed by Alaric Steinmetz on 12.10.2024

Synonyms

Dorsale Zervikale Foraminotomie

Frykholm's posterior foraminotomy is used for cervical disc herniations in the foraminal region[^2]. In contrast to ACDF surgery, the surgical approach in the Frykholm procedure is posterior rather than anterior.

Historically

The approach for posterior foraminotomy was described independently by Frykholm[^3] and Scoville[^4] in 1951.

Figure

Schematic representation of the Frykholm procedure — Schematic representation of the approach for dorsal foraminotomy according to Frykholm. Figure adapted from Hamer J. et al. 1978.

Schematic illustration of a Frykholm approach — Schematic illustration of the Frykholm approach. Figure adapted from Witzmann et al. (2000).

Surgical technique

Frykholm's posterior foraminotomy can be performed minimally invasively using a tubular retractor system[^1] or via a midline approach.