Clinical evaluation of interlaminar endoscopic discectomy in lumbar disc herniation by Destandau's technique

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of interlaminar endoscopic discectomy using Destandau's technique in patients with symptomatic lumbar disc herniation, focusing on functional improvement, pain relief, and overall patient satisfaction.

This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at a tertiary care hospital. Surgical intervention in all cases was performed using Destandau's technique for interlaminar endoscopic lumbar discectomy, a minimally invasive procedure involving an endospine system to access and decompress the affected nerve root.A total of 15 patients aged between 18 and 60 years with symptomatic lumbar disc herniation refractory to at least six weeks of conservative treatment were included. Preoperative assessment comprised clinical and neurological evaluation and standardised outcome measures, including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, and the Macnab Outcome Score.Postoperative care included appropriate analgesia, early mobilisation, and scheduled follow-up visits at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months to monitor recovery and assess outcomes.

The mean age of participants was 36.47 ± 8.33 years, with a male predominance (66.7 %). L5-S1 was the most commonly affected level (53.3 %). ODI and VAS scores showed significant improvement at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months (p < 0.001). According to McNab's criteria, 26.7 % achieved excellent outcomes, 53.3 % good, and 20 % fair. Complication rates were minimal, and hospital stays were brief, with 86.7 % discharged within 2 days.

Endoscopic discectomy using the Destandau technique significantly reduced pain and disability scores, along with favourable functional outcomes over a 3-month follow-up period. These findings support its effectiveness in the surgical management of symptomatic lumbar disc herniation.