Stereotactic percutaneous lumbar discectomy

Sixty-nine patients with documented and contained disc herniations underwent percutaneous discectomy. The procedure was carried out with a new stereotactic device mounted on the floor and positioned over the computed tomographic scanner. In each instance, this device provided accurate insertion of the needle and localization of the aspiration probe (Nucleotome) within the appropriate area of the disc. Aspiration of the herniated nucleus pulposus was accomplished in every patient, and no complications were encountered.