[Percutaneous cervical discectomy: a report of twenty-five cases]

Twenty-five patients with herniations of the cervical intervertebral disks were treated with percutaneous cervical discectomy. The surgical instruments and technique were improved based on those for percutaneous lumbar discectomy. All the patients well recovered with an average follow-up period of 15.6 months (from 4 to 23 months) and no major complications was encountered. The method is safe, easy and effective. The anatomy, principles and maneuvers related to the operation are discussed in detail.