Automated percutaneous discectomy: the role of the physical therapist

A number of surgical techniques are used in the treatment of herniated intervertebral discs. The purpose of this report was to introduce the technique of automated percutaneous discectomy and suggest a postoperative physical therapy program. Automated percutaneous discectomy (APD) is a new innovative surgical technique used for the treatment of herniated lumbar discs. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia on an outpatient basis and takes approximately one hour. The success of this procedure depends upon proper patient selection based on physical examination and differential diagnosis. The role of the physical therapist in postoperative care for the APD patient is discussed. The rationale for the suggested protocol is based on the McKenzie approach to the treatment of mechanical low back pain, emphasizing patient education and prophylaxis. The concept of spinal stabilization training is also introduced to facilitate return to daily activities. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1992;15(1):2-9.