An analysis of lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedics
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Disc protrusion, a common cause of low back pain, affects a significant portion of the adult population.
• Understanding the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of disc protrusion is crucial for effective surgical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze clinical findings and operative outcomes in 212 patients who underwent surgery for disc protrusion.
• To identify demographic patterns, common locations, and potential influencing factors of disc prolapse.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 212 surgically treated cases of disc protrusion.
• Evaluation of patient demographics, including age and ethnic background.
• Documentation of surgical findings, focusing on the location and side of disc prolapse.

Main Results:

• The peak age incidence for disc protrusion was between 21 and 40 years.
• The L4-L5 disc space was the most common site for disc prolapse, predominantly on the left side.
• The L5-S1 disc space was more frequently affected in white individuals, suggesting potential anthropologic influences.

Conclusions:

• Surgical intervention for disc protrusion yields valuable clinical and operative data.
• Age and anthropologic factors may influence the location and presentation of lumbar disc prolapse.
• Surgical exploration should include spinal flexion and intervertebral foramen examination for thorough disc protrusion assessment.