[Results of microsurgical lumbar intervertebral disk operation. Preliminary report]

Since the end of 1977 we have introduced the microsurgical discectomy according to the technique of Caspar. The results of 150 consecutive patients have been analysed. The preliminary results of these patients will be presented. The microsurgical and conventional technique were evaluated and compared concerning the size of the operation, complications, recurrent herniations and the outcome. In 84% of our patients a selective monosegmental approach could be performed. A hemilaminectomy was necessary only in 1.3% of the patients. In 96% the discectomy could be restricted to one level. Thus, traumatisation of back musculature and bone resection was markedly less than with the conventional technique. The frequency of complications with the microsurgical technique was significantly lower. The frequency of repeat operation (arachnitis, true repeat herniation) did not differ essentially. Concerning the outcome of operation the results of the microsurgical technique seems to be more favourable. The frequency of bad results did not differ.