Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 29, 2026
Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Approach for Lumbar Discectomy
Published on: September 8, 2023
Transforaminal approach in thoracal disc pathologies: transforaminal microdiscectomy technique
Sedat Dalbayrak1, Onur Yaman2, Kadir Oztürk1
1Neurospinal Academy, Neurosurgery, 34940 Istanbul, Turkey.
Abstract:
Objective. Many surgical approaches have been defined and implemented in the last few decades for thoracic disc herniations. The endoscopic foraminal approach in foraminal, lateral, and far lateral disc hernias is a contemporary minimal invasive approach. This study was performed to show that the approach is possible using the microscope without an endoscope, and even the intervention on the discs within the spinal canal is possible by having access through the foramen. Methods. Forty-two cases with disc hernias in the medial of the pedicle were included in this study; surgeries were performed with transforaminal approach and microsurgically. Extraforaminal disc hernias were not included in the study. Access was made through the Kambin triangle, foramen was enlarged, and spinal canal was entered. Results. The procedure took 65 minutes in the average, and the mean bleeding amount was about 100cc. They were mobilized within the same day postoperatively. No complications were seen. Follow-up periods range between 5 and 84 months, and the mean follow-up period is 30.2 months. Conclusion. Transforaminal microdiscectomy is a method that can be performed in any clinic with standard spinal surgery equipment. It does not require additional equipment or high costs.
Insights
Transforaminal microdiscectomy using a microscope is a viable surgical option for thoracic disc herniations. This minimally invasive technique is cost-effective and achievable with standard surgical equipment.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Thoracic disc herniations are treated with various surgical approaches.
- Minimally invasive endoscopic foraminal approaches are increasingly utilized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the feasibility of microsurgical transforaminal discectomy for thoracic disc herniations.
- To show that spinal canal access is possible via the foramen using a microscope without an endoscope.
Main Methods:
- Forty-two patients with thoracic disc herniations medial to the pedicle underwent microsurgical transforaminal discectomy.
- Access was gained through the Kambin triangle, with foramen enlargement to enter the spinal canal.
Main Results:
- Average procedure time was 65 minutes with an average blood loss of 100cc.
- Patients were mobilized the same postoperative day with no observed complications.
- Mean follow-up was 30.2 months (range 5-84 months).
Conclusions:
- Transforaminal microdiscectomy is a safe and effective treatment for specific thoracic disc herniations.
- This technique is accessible in standard surgical settings without requiring specialized equipment or high costs.
