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Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Approach for Lumbar Discectomy
Published on: September 8, 2023
Clinical outcomes after microendoscopic discectomy for recurrent lumbar disc herniation
Justin S Smith1, Alfred T Ogden, Stephen Shafizadeh
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. jss7f@virginia.edu
Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques
|January 7, 2010
Summary
Microendoscopic discectomy (MED) is a safe and effective treatment for recurrent lumbar disc herniation, showing significant improvements in pain and function. This minimally invasive approach offers outcomes comparable to traditional open surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Background:
- Recurrent lumbar disc herniation often treated with open surgery.
- Minimally invasive approaches like microendoscopic discectomy (MED) are typically contraindicated for recurrent cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of MED for treating recurrent lumbar disc herniation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 16 patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation undergoing MED.
- Pre- and post-operative assessments included Oswestry Disability Index, SF-36, and Visual Analog Scale for leg pain.
- Outcomes assessed using modified McNab criteria.
Main Results:
- No conversions to open surgery; low blood loss (32 mL) and short hospital stay (23 hours).
- 80% of patients achieved good or excellent outcomes (modified McNab criteria).
- Significant improvements in leg pain (VAS), disability (ODI), and functional health (SF-36 scores) (P<0.001).
Conclusions:
- MED is a safe and effective minimally invasive option for recurrent lumbar disc herniation.
- Outcomes are comparable to conventional open microdiscectomy.
- No recurrence or delayed instability observed at 14.7-month follow-up.
