Microscissor DREZotomy - A New Way for 'Atraumatic Lesioning' of DREZ

Background and Aims: Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning is a widely-used procedure for neuropathic pain which is refractory to other modes of treatment. However, all current techniques depend on thermal or radiofrequency (RF) lesioning of the DREZ. The authors describe a new technique in which mechanical lesioning of DREZ using microscissors. Methods: The authors describe their technique of only using straight microscissors for the whole procedure of DREZotomy. No cautery is used except for hemostasis. Results: Our technique is a continuing evolution of the original DREZotomy described by Nashold and Sindou, and appears more atraumatic and simpler. Conclusion: Microscissor DREZotomy appears to be the most atraumatic way of carrying out DREZ lesioning and overcomes the disadvantages of other methods like thermal and RF lesioning.