Block Resection of Lumbar Osteoblastoma. Presentation of a Case and Bibliographical Update

Abstract

Objective: To present the clinical case and update the bibliography. Methods: A male patient, 24 years of age, sought treatment for right lumbosciatalgia of 3 years of evolution with topography L5 and motor deficit (M4). The radiograph showed a radiopaque lesion between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, with right pedicle effacement of L4. The tomography identified a lytic lesion, partially surrounded by sclerosis with a central nest of 3 centimeters in diameter located in the right pedicle with involvement of the transverse apophysis and reaction of the intertransverse space (Enneking 3). It was complemented by magnetic resonance and bone scintigraphy. The percutaneous biopsy guided by tomography yielded a diagnosis of osteoblastoma and foci of necrosis. A radical block resection was performed with clear tumor margins and instrumented stabilization. Results: After the surgical treatment, the patient evolved favorably, reversing the motor deficit. The anatomopathological study of the specimen confirms the preoperative diagnosis. Discussion: Intralesional resection may be an option in Enneking stage 2. In Enneking stage 3, a percutaneous diagnostic biopsy may be useful, and block resection is the preferred definitive treatment. Conclusions: The management of spinal osteoblastoma requires an exhaustive clinical-imaging analysis. Block resection with clear margins is preferred in advanced cases for management and to decrease the risk of recurrence. Level of Evidence IV; Case seriesh.