Laser-assisted percutaneous endoscopic neurolysis

Endoscopic lysis of adhesive scar utilizing a steerable fiberoptic scope is currently being performed by a growing number of physicians. Various techniques and medications are presently being used to lyse epidural adhesions as a way of improving refractory lumbar radiculopathies. We present a case report discussing laser-assisted endoscopic lysis with radiographic images before and after laser-assisted neurolysis. We were able to demonstrate improvement in the filling of the nerve root with epidural contrast after the laser lysis of scar. This correlated with improvement in pain without neurologic deficit. The laser may represent a useful adjunct in the treatment of pain due to epidural fibrosis.