Far-out Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review of Diagnosis and Treatment Evolution
10.21182/jmisst.2024.01823
- Author:
Ta-Li HSU
1
;
Jwo-Luen PAO
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:
Journal of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Technique
2025;10(1):117-123
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Far-out syndrome (FOS) involves the compression of the L5 nerve between the transverse process of L5 and the ala of the sacrum. This study was conducted to assess the diagnostic approaches and treatments for FOS. A literature search for articles about FOS was performed using PubMed and Cochrane CENTRAL for English language articles published from inception until May 7, 2024. The search terms used were tailored to encompass an overview of FOS as a disease, diagnostic approaches, and treatments. FOS is a challenging condition to diagnose and treat. Computed tomography (CT) has been investigated, but our results suggest that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best method for diagnosing FOS. While open surgery is effective for treating FOS, recently developed minimally invasive methods offer favorable outcomes with fewer complications and faster recovery. Microscopic or endoscopic minimally invasive decompression procedures currently appear to be the method of choice for treating FOS. New methods such as unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) and CT-assisted navigation require further evaluation with respect to outcomes and cost-effectiveness, as there is currently little literature describing their usefulness. MRI appears to be the most useful method for diagnosing FOS, and microscopic or endoscopic minimally invasive decompression procedures are the current method of choice for treating FOS. The benefits of recently techniques, such as UBE and intraoperative CT navigational assistance, have potential. Nonetheless, more evidence is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
