Neurodegenerative effects of monopolar electrocauterization on spinal ganglia in lumbar disc surgery

Monopolar electrocauterization (MEC) is widely used in spine surgery however electrical currents are hazardous for neural tissues, such as the spinal ganglia sited in the intervertebral foramina. We aimed to investigate the effects of MEC on spinal ganglia. Fifteen male hybrid rabbits were included in the study. Three of the animals were used to analyze the findings regarding spinal ganglia without operation. The remaining animals underwent L4-5 disc surgery. For intra-operative facet denervation MEC was used for half of the animals. After one month, all animals were sacrificed and L5 spinal ganglia were removed for histopathological examination. The number and morphological changes of neurons in spinal ganglia were examined. The mean number of live neurons was 22610 in non-operated rabbits; 21617 in the non-MEC group and 16692 in the MEC group. Neuronal degeneration was more prominent in the MEC group than in the non-MEC group. MEC used during spine surgery may be injurious to spinal ganglia and should be used with caution.