[Lumbar disc herniation; neurosurgical view (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Treatment decisions for lumbar disc herniation frequently lack scientific rigor.
• Many patients experience delayed diagnosis and treatment, leading to late admission to neurosurgical departments.
• This delay can result in suboptimal patient outcomes and increased treatment complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the discrepancy between clinical practice and scientific evidence in lumbar disc herniation management.
• To emphasize the importance of accurate diagnostic tools for timely intervention.
• To advocate for evidence-based treatment protocols in managing lumbar disc herniation.

Main Methods:

• Review of current treatment strategies for lumbar disc herniation.
• Analysis of factors contributing to delayed patient presentation in neurosurgical care.
• Evaluation of the role of modern myelography in diagnosis and surgical planning.

Main Results:

• Treatment selection for lumbar disc herniation is often influenced by physician's individual knowledge rather than scientific evidence.
• Delayed presentation to neurosurgery is a significant issue, often due to insufficient initial treatment.
• Modern myelography proves effective in accurately localizing herniated discs.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for evidence-based guidelines in managing lumbar disc herniation.
• Timely and accurate diagnosis via advanced imaging like myelography is crucial.
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques guided by precise localization can improve patient outcomes.