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Microlumbar discectomy state of art treatment for prolapsed lumbar intervertebral disc
1Department of Neurosurgery, L. T. M. G. Hospital, Mumbai- 400 022, India.
Abstract:
Microlumbar discectomy is latest state of art treatment for prolapsed lumbar intervertebral disc. A series of 250 consecutive cases operated over a period of 4 and 1/2 years have been reviewed. There were no significant complications. L4/5 was the most common level followed by L5/SI. All the six cases operated bilaterally were at L4/5 level. Relief of sciatic pain was seen in 98 percent of the patients and six patients (2.4 percent) required to be re-operated over a period of three and half years. The indication for microlumbar discectomy drops sharply after the age of fifty years. Patients also have other pathologies with advancing age such as lateral recess stenosis and hypertrophy of facets requiring alternative treatment. The overall results of microlumbar discectomy are superior in comparison to standard laminectomy.
Insights
Microlumbar discectomy effectively treats prolapsed lumbar intervertebral discs with a 98% success rate for sciatic pain relief. This minimally invasive procedure shows superior outcomes compared to standard laminectomy.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Prolapsed lumbar intervertebral disc is a common condition requiring effective treatment.
- Microlumbar discectomy represents an advanced surgical approach for this pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of microlumbar discectomy.
- To compare outcomes with standard laminectomy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 250 consecutive microlumbar discectomy cases.
- Analysis of complication rates, re-operation rates, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- 98% of patients experienced relief from sciatic pain.
- L4/5 was the most frequent surgical level; bilateral procedures were exclusively at L4/5.
- Low complication and re-operation rates (2.4%).
Conclusions:
- Microlumbar discectomy is a safe and highly effective treatment for prolapsed lumbar intervertebral discs.
- Its efficacy decreases in patients over 50 due to co-existing pathologies.
- Overall results are superior to standard laminectomy.
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