Abstract

Synovial cysts of the lumbar spine are uncommon lesions, but they should be considered in cases with radicular compression. Their pathogeny is controversial, and multiple therapeutic options have been describes. We are reporting on a retrospective clinical series of seven patients treated in eight years. In general, the patients were over 60, with unilateral radicular pain starting three months before diagnosis. Only two patients had root deficit. All lesions affected L4-L5 level. Hemilaminectomy and resection of the cyst were performed. Six patients had complete resolution of pain. One patient presented moderate pain relief, and subsequently underwent a vertebral fusion because of spondylolisthesis, with a successful outcome. The surgery is a safe and effective treatment for this lesion. The literatura concerning this important pathology is also reviewed