Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations. Technique and results

Publication

Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations. Technique and results

Journal Paper/Review - Jun 1, 2007

Kogias Evangelos, Vougioukas V I, Hubbe U, Halatsch M-E

Citation

Kogias E, Vougioukas V, Hubbe U, Halatsch M. Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations. Technique and results. Minim Invasive Neurosurg 2007; 50:160-2.

Type

Journal Paper/Review (English)

Journal

Minim Invasive Neurosurg 2007; 50

Publication Date

Jun 1, 2007

Issn Print

0946-7211

Pages

160-2

Brief description/objective

OBJECTIVE
This paper aims to demonstrate the feasibility and efficacy of a minimal invasive approach by using a muscle dilator system for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations.

METHODS
A retrospective analysis of 38 cases with lateral lumbar disc herniations that were treated the METRx-System was performed. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively with the visual analogue scale (VAS) for leg pain. Follow up ranged from 6 to 24 months.

RESULTS
No intraoperative complications were observed. Operation time and intraoperative blood loss were minimized. In 37 cases VAS scores were significantly lower after the procedure. A single patient had to be reoperated due to insufficient removal of the herniated disc material.

CONCLUSION
The reported minimal invasive technique is a safe and efficient alternative to conventional methods for the treatment of lateral lumbar disc herniations.