Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
Full-Endoscopic Isolation Zone Technique for the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation
Published on: April 7, 2023
Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations. Technique and results
E Kogias1, V I Vougioukas, U Hubbe
1Department of Neurosurgery, Albert-Ludwigs University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Objective:
This paper aims to demonstrate the feasibility and efficacy of a minimal invasive approach by using a muscle dilator system for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis of 38 cases with lateral lumbar disc herniations that were treated the METRx-System was performed. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively with the visual analogue scale (VAS) for leg pain. Follow up ranged from 6 to 24 months.
Results:
No intraoperative complications were observed. Operation time and intraoperative blood loss were minimized. In 37 cases VAS scores were significantly lower after the procedure. A single patient had to be reoperated due to insufficient removal of the herniated disc material.
Conclusion:
The reported minimal invasive technique is a safe and efficient alternative to conventional methods for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations.
