Interlaminar approach for excision of lateral lumbar disc herniation: technical note

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
• Spinal Anatomy

Background:

• The traditional interlaminar approach for lateral lumbar disc herniation (LLDH) can be challenging.
• Significant facet joint removal is often necessary for adequate access.
• Limited exposure can complicate the excision of intraforaminal LLDH.

Observation:

• A case report details a 41-year-old woman with severe LLDH at L4/5.
• The patient presented with chronic low back and leg pain.
• CT imaging confirmed a left-sided intraforaminal disc protrusion.

Findings:

• A modified interlaminar approach from the contralateral (right) side was successfully employed for a left L4/5 discectomy.
• This technique provided superior exposure with less facet joint removal.
• The patient achieved an excellent postoperative result.

Implications:

• This contralateral interlaminar technique offers a valuable alternative for LLDH excision.
• Reduced facetectomy may lead to improved spinal stability and faster recovery.
• Further studies could explore the broader applicability of this modified approach.