[Diagnosis and microsurgical treatment of discogenic lumbosacral radiculitis]

The literature data and the authors' experience in the treatment of 50 patients showed that the level and character of damage inflicted to the spinal cord roots by Schmorl's body can be determined with the precision necessary for performing a microsurgical intervention only on the basis of a diagnostic complex including scrupulous neurological, X-ray, and electrophysiological examination. The authors show the diagnostic value of studying the somatosensory evoked potentials in stimulation of the corresponding dermatomes (L4, L5 or S1), which reflect the primary side of the affection and, to a lesser degree, the level of Schmorl's body. The microsurgical techniques of exposing the spinal cord root compressed by Schmorl's body was carefully developed and described. Attention is focused on the necessity of using the appropriate microsurgical instruments and placing the patient in an adequate position on the operating table.