Discectomía Endoscópica Lumbar Percutánea: presentación de 110 casos intervenidos en Argentina y revisión de la técnica quirúrgica / Percutaneous Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy: presentation of 110 operated cases in Argentina and review of the surgical technique

Introducción: La Discectomía Endoscópica Lumbar Percutánea (DELP) es una técnica mínimamente invasiva que se usa en distintos países desde finales de los ochenta para el tratamiento de las Hernias Discales. Objetivo: El propósito del presente artículo es presentar los resultados de la evolución clínica de 110 pacientes operados de distintas hernias discales lumbares por técnica endoscópica percutánea, con seis meses de seguimiento. Asimismo, describir la técnica realizada y los aspectos más relevantes del planning preoperatorio, entre ellos el punto de ingreso percutáneo. Materiales y Métodos: En un grupo de 110 pacientes y 141 discos operados entre abril de 2016 y octubre de 2019, se recogieron datos como la edad, el sexo, la clínica, las imágenes de RMN y el planning del ingreso (Skin Entry Point) con target en el fragmento discal herniado. Se realizó en todos los casos una fragmentectomía dirigida, y luego se complementó con técnica In-Out. Se registró, como dato principal, la diferencia en los puntajes de Oswestry (ODI) pre y postquirúrgico a los 6 meses del procedimiento. También se constató la duración de la operación, el tiempo de hospitalización, y la necesidad de reintervención. Todos los pacientes se operaron despiertos, recibiendo anestesia peridural y sedación. Resultados: Se operaron 110 pacientes y 141 hernias discales. El promedio de reducción en ODI a los 6 meses fue 47,5 puntos (SD=5,7), representando un porcentaje medio de reducción de 85% (SD=9,5). Desde el punto de vista técnico se logró promediar la distancia de línea media al ingreso o Skin Entry Point, según el nivel operado y el abordaje elegido. Conclusión: a la luz de los resultados en nuestra serie de 110 pacientes con hernias discales lumbares, operados despiertos por endoscopía percutánea, se obtuvieron mejorías en el dolor promedio del 85% a seis meses. La técnica endoscópica puede ser considerada como un procedimiento efectivo para pacientes con hernias foraminales, extraforaminales y centrales en los niveles L3L4, L4L5 y L5S1.

Introduction: Introduction: PELD is a minimally invasive technique that has been used in different countries since the late 1980s for the treatment of Herniated Discs. Objective: to describe the surgical method from the Approach point of view and PELD results in a series of 110 patients. Materials and Methods: In a group of 110 patients who together had 141 discs operated on between April 2016 and October 2019, data were collected on patients age and gender, clinical presentation, MRI abnormalities and Skin Entry Point (SEP) with target in the herniated disc fragment. A focused fragmentectomy was performed in all cases, and then it was complemented with an In-Out technique. The main result was the difference in the pre and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores 6 months after the procedure. The operation duration, the lenght of hospitalization, and the need for reoperation were also recorded. All patients underwent surgery awake, receiving epidural anesthesia and sedation. Results: Respecting the SEP of the endoscope according to the MRI planning focused in the herniated fragment, the evolution of the patients was very favorable. The average reduction in ODI at 6 months was 47.5 points (SD = 5.7), representing an average percentage reduction of 85% (SD = 9.5). The average surgery time was 58 minutes, and the hospitalization time 8.5 hours. Conclusions: In our series of surgical patients with lumbar disc herniations, PELD with focused fragmentectomy in awake patients proved to be a technique with very good results, especially with prior planning of the SEP to achieve effective root decompression

Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy: Clinical Outcomes and Complications / Discectomia endoscópica transforaminal lombar: Resultados clínicos e complicações

Abstract Objective To evaluate the clinical and functional results of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy. Materials and Methods From August 2015 to January 2017, 101 patients with lumbar disc hernia refractory to clinical treatment underwent endoscopic discectomy. Through clinical evaluation by the Visual Analogue Scale and functional evaluation by the Oswestry Disability Index questionnaire, the patients were analyzed in the preoperative period, the immediate postoperative period, at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after surgery. Results The mean age of the participants was 48.1 years. The most affected disc levels were L4-L5 and L5-S1. A total of 29 patients were treated at 2 disc levels. After 1 month of postoperative follow-up, the mean scores on the questionnaires (VAS and ODI) decreased significantly (p < 0.001). Conclusion Transforaminal endoscopic Lumbar discectomy has been shown to be a safe, effective and minimally-invasive alternative for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. The procedure has advantages, such as short hospital stay, surgery performed under local anesthesia and sedation, early return to daily activities, and low rate of complications.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os resultados clínicos e funcionais da discectomia endoscópica transforaminal lombar. Materiais e Métodos De agosto de 2015 a janeiro de 2017, 101 pacientes portadores de hérnia de disco lombar refratária ao tratamento clínico foram submetidos a discectomia endoscópica. Por meio de avaliação clínica pela Escala Visual Analógica e análise funcional pelo questionário Oswestry Disability Index, os pacientes foram analisados no período pré-operatório, no pós-operatório imediato, com 1 mês, 3 meses, 6 meses e 1 ano após a cirurgia. Resultados A média de idade dos participantes foi de 48.1 anos. Os níveis discais mais acometidos foram L4-L5, seguidos de L5-S1. Um total de 29 pacientes foram abordados em 2 níveis discais. Após 1 mês de seguimento pós-operatório, a média das pontuações nos questionários (EVA e ODI) diminuiu significativamente (p < 0.001). Conclusão A discectomia endoscópica transforaminal lombar mostrou ser uma alternativa segura, eficaz e minimamente invasiva para o tratamento de hérnia de disco lombar. O procedimento tem vantagens, como curto período de internação hospitalar, cirurgia realizada sob anestesia local e sedação, retorno precoce às atividades diárias, e baixa taxa de complicações.

Discectomía Endoscópica Lumbar Percutánea (DELP): presentación de 60 casos intervenidos en Argentina con pacientes despiertos / Percutaneous Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy (PRS): presentation of 60 cases operated in Argentina with awake patients

Introducción: La DELP es una técnica mínimamente invasiva que se usa en distintos países desde finales de los años ochenta para el tratamiento de las hernias discales. Nuestro objetivo es describir los resultados de las DELP en una serie de pacientes despiertos, con anestesia peridural y sedación. Materiales y Métodos: En un grupo de 60 pacientes y 77 hernias de discos operados entre abril de 2016 y marzo de 2018, se recogieron datos como la edad, el sexo, la imagen clínica y las anomalías de imágenes mediante MRI. El resultado principal fue la diferencia en los puntajes de Oswestry (ODI) pre y postquirúrgico a las 8 semanas del procedimiento. También se evaluaron los criterios de Macnab, la duración de la operación, el tiempo de hospitalización, las complicaciones quirúrgicas y la necesidad de reintervención. Los pacientes recibieron anestesia peridural y sedación. Resultados: Se operaron 60 pacientes y 77 hernias discales. El promedio de reducción en ODI a las 8 semanas fue 48 puntos (SD=5), representando un porcentaje medio de reducción de 85%(SD=8). Según los criterios de Macnab, tuvieron excelente o buena evolución el 85% de los pacientes, regular 10% y mala evolución 5%. El tiempo de cirugía promedio fue de 50 minutos y el de hospitalización 8,6 horas. Conclusiones: En nuestra serie de pacientes quirúrgicos con hernias discales lumbares la DELP resultó ser una técnica con muy buenos resultados en la reducción del dolor, de corta duración quirúrgica, sin complicaciones y breve estadía hospitalaria. La opción del paciente despierto y la modalidad ambulatoria fueron muy aceptadas por los pacientes y resultaron de factible ejecución.

Introduction: Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is a minimally-invasive technique that has been used in different countries since the late eighties for the treatment of herniated discs. Objective: To describe the results of PELD in a series of awake patients, treated with epidural anesthesia and mild sedation. Methods and Materials: In a group of 60 patients, who together had 77 discs operated upon between April 2016 and March 2018, data were collected on patient age and gender, clinical presentation, and MRI abnormalities. The main outcome of interest was the difference between preoperative and postoperative Oswestry (ODI) scores eight weeks after the procedure. Macnab criteria, operation duration, length of hospitalization, surgical complications, and the need for reoperation were other outcomes evaluated. All patients received epidural anesthesia and mild sedation. Results: The average reduction in ODI at 8 weeks was 48 points (SD = 5), representing an average percentage reduction of 85% (SD = 8). By Macnab's criteria, 85% of patients experienced either an excellent or good result, while 10% and 5% had a fair and poor result, respectively. Average surgery time was 50 minutes and in-hospitalization stay 8.6 hours. Conclusions: In our series of surgical patients with lumbar disc herniations, PELD yielded very good results, manifest as significantly reduced pain, brief procedural durations, no complications, and short hospital stays. Patients accepted the option of being awake and immediately ambulatory, and the approach proved highly feasible to execute.

Percutaneous mechanical lumbar disc decompression using the enSpire™ interventional discectomy system: a preliminary study

BACKGROUND: The enSpire™ interventional discectomy system is a new device for treating percutaneous disc decompression (PDD). The outcomes of using the enSpire™ for lumbar disc herniation have not been previously reported. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical effectiveness and safety of the enSpire™ interventional discectomy system for lumbar disc herniation with radiating pain. METHODS: Twelve patients with lumbar disc herniation with radiating leg pain were enrolled in the study. All patients received PDD using enSpire™. Numeric rating scale (NRS) scores for pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were obtained initially and after 1 and 3 months. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1, in which the NRS score improved by more than 50% at 3 months after procedure, and Group 2, in which the NRS score remained the same or improved by less than 50%. RESULTS: After PDD using the enSpire™, the NRS scores decreased from 6.9 ± 1.2 to 2.8 ± 2.7; and ODI scores decreased from 25.8 ± 4.6 to 18.2 ± 5.5. No statistical differences occurred between Group 1 (n = 8) and Group 2 (n = 4) except in the duration of prior illness. CONCLUSIONS: The enSpire™ interventional discectomy system is effective and safe over the short-term, minimally invasive, and easy to use.

Resultados de la nucleotomía percutánea en el manejo de la hernia discal lumbar / Results of percutaneous discectomy in the management of lumbar disc herniation

Resumen: Introducción: La nucleotomía percutánea es una técnica de descompresión discal aprobada por la FDA que ha mostrado ser útil para mejorar el dolor causado por hernia discal. No obstante, su práctica se encuentra en discusión debido a que los beneficios de la técnica son controversiales. Objetivos: Describir los resultados de la evolución clínica de los pacientes con hernia discal lumbar baja (L4-L5, L5-S1) tratada mediante cirugía percutánea a un año de operados y mostrar que es una opción quirúrgica útil para el alivio de la sintomatología causada por esta entidad patológica. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte; presentamos la evolución clínica de 21 individuos con hernia discal lumbar tratados con nucleotomía percutánea manual durante Marzo 2011-Noviembre 2013. La evaluación fue hecha antes de la cirugía y a los cuatro, 30, 180 y 365 días después de operados mediante la escala numérica del dolor (END), índice de discapacidad funcional de Oswestry (IDO) y criterios de MacNab. Utilizamos estadística inferencial no paramétrica (Wilcoxon) para diferencias. Resultados: n = 21: seis (28.57%) hombres, 15 (71.42%) mujeres; edad promedio: 37.95 años (14-56), ± 10.60; el nivel vertebral más afectado: L4-L5, en 12 (57.14%) sujetos. La END preoperatoria promedio: 7.75 (5-9) ± 1.12; a los 365 días: promedio 2.14 (0-7) ± 2.37. El IDO preoperatorio promedio: 37% (28-40%) ± 3.06 y a los 365 días: 9.52% (0-40%) ± 13.92. El pronóstico (IDO) en el prequirúrgico fue bueno en cero (0%) personas y en 15 (71.42%) a los 365 días, regular en cinco (23.80%) y malo en una (4.78%) (p = 0.000 IC 95% 0.00-0.13, Wilcoxon); de acuerdo con los criterios de MacNab, en 15 (71.42%) casos fueron excelentes y buenos, pobres en cuatro (19.04%) y malos en dos (9.52%) (p = 0.00). Conclusiones: La nucleotomía percutánea ofrece buenos resultados para el tratamiento de las hernias discales lumbares (L4-L5, L5-S1) a los 365 días de operados los pacientes.

Abstract: Introduction: Percutaneous discectomy is a disc decompression technique approved by the FDA that is useful to improve pain caused by a herniated disc. However, its practice is under discussion because the benefits of the technique are controversial. Objectives: To describe the clinical course of patients with low lumbar disc herniation (L4-L5, L5-S1) treated by percutaneous surgery within one year of surgery and prove that it is a useful surgical option for the relief of symptoms caused by this pathological entity. Material and methods: Cohort study; the clinical course of 21 patients with lumbar disc herniation treated with percutaneous discectomy manually during March 2011-November 2013, is presented. The evaluation was made before surgery and at four, 30, 180 and 365 days after surgery by numerical pain scale (NPS), Oswestry (IDO) and MacNab criteria. We used nonparametric inferential statistics (Wilcoxon) for differences in proportions. Results: n = 21, six (28.57%) men, 15 (71.42%) women; average age: 37.95, (14-56) ± 10.60 years; the most affected vertebral level was L4-L5 in 57.14% of the patients; the NPS preoperative average was 7.75 (5-9) ± 1.12; at 365 days: average 2.14 (0-7) ± 2.37. The IDO preoperative average was 37% (28-40%) ± 3.06, and at 365 days: 9.52% (0-40%) ± 13.92. The prognosis (IDO) in the presurgical was good to zero (0%) patients and in 15 (71.42%) at 365 days, regular in five (23.80%) and poor in one (4.78%) (p = 0.00, CI 95% 0.00 to 0.13, Wilcoxon); according to MacNab criteria, in 15 (71.42%) patients were excellent and good, poor in four (19.04%) and bad in two (9.52%) (p = 0.00). Conclusions: Percutaneous discectomy provides good results for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (L4-L5, L5-S1) at 365 days after surgery.

Randomized clinical trial comparing lumbar percutaneous hydrodiscectomy with lumbar open microdiscectomy for the treatment of lumbar disc protrusions and herniations

OBJECTIVES: Hydrodiscectomy is a new technique used for percutaneous spinal discectomy that employs a high-intensity stream of water for herniated disc ablation and tissue aspiration. No previous clinical study has examined the effects of percutaneous hydrodiscectomy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of hydrodiscectomy compared to open microdiscectomy regarding pain, function, satisfaction, complications and recurrence rates. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial, patients referred to our tertiary hospital for lumbar back pain were recruited and included in the study if they had disc protrusion or small herniation in only one level, without neurological deficits and with no resolution after six weeks of conservative treatment. One group underwent open microdiscectomy, and the other group underwent percutaneous microdiscectomy via hydrosurgery. Function was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index and pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. Evaluations were performed preoperatively, and then during the first week and at one, three, six and twelve months postoperatively. Personal satisfaction was verified. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01367860. RESULTS: During the study period, 20 patients were included in each arm and 39 completed one-year of follow-up (one patient died of unrelated causes). Both groups exhibited equal improvement on the visual analog scale and Oswestry evaluations after treatment, without any significant differences. The improvement in the lumbar visual analog scale score was not significant in the hydrodiscectomy group (p=0.138). The rates of infection, pain, recurrence and satisfaction were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous hydrodiscectomy was demonstrated to be as effective as open microdiscectomy for reducing pain. The rates of complications and recurrence of herniation were similar between groups. Patient satisfaction with the treatment was also similar between groups.

Percutaneous Pedicle Screws Positioning by means of the "Scotty Dog" Imaging Monitoring Technique in Spine Surgery: A Case Series / Posicionamento de parafuso pedicular percutâneo por meio do método Scotty Dog de monitoramento de imagem em cirurgia de coluna: uma série de casos

Objectives Vertebrae, when looked at in x-rays with oblique incidence (45°), seem similar in shape to a Scottish Terrier dog. The "Scotty Dog" incidence is commonly used in spinal pain treatments such as radiofrequency and transforaminal blockages for correct insertion of the needle, because it allows complete visualization of the pedicle. The objective is to describe a series of cases of spinal surgery using the "Scotty Dog" monitoring technique and to evaluate safety. Methods In this study, we describe all consecutive patients operated by the same surgeon from August 2011 to August 2012 using the "Scotty Dog" technique of fluoroscopic monitoring. Patients were operated for spondylolisthesis, lumbar canal stenosis, spinal disc herniations, and fractures. All patients underwent computed tomography (CT) after surgery to confirm the correct positioning of screws. Results During the study period, 42 patients with a mean age of 64.5 years underwent operation, most of them for spinal disc herniation correction. In all cases, visualization of the pedicle was possible in all its length and no case of foramen invasion was registered. Surgical time was 98 minutes on average, with no need for transfusion or complications requiring admission to the ICU. There was one case of infection. Conclusions The Scotty Dog technique for imaging monitoring of the spine provides easy visualization of the whole pedicle, allowing a safe screw insertion. In this case series, there was no case of foramen invasion.

Objetivos As vértebras, visualizadas pela incidência oblíqua (45°) nos raios-X, têm o formato de um cão da raça Scottish Terrier. A incidência Scotty Dog é usada em tratamentos de dor na coluna, como radiofrequência e bloqueios transforaminais, para correta inserção da agulha, porque permite completa visualização do pedículo. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever uma série de casos de cirurgia de coluna usando a técnica de monitoramento Scotty Dog e avaliar segurança. Métodos Todos os pacientes consecutivos operados pelo mesmo cirurgião de agosto de 2011 a agosto de 2012 usando a técnica Scotty Dog de monitoramento fluoroscópico foram descritos. Pacientes foram operados devido a espondilolistese, estenose do canal vertebral, hérnias e fraturas. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a tomografia computadorizada após a cirurgia para confirmação do correto posicionamento dos parafusos. Resultados No período do estudo, 42 pacientes foramoperados, commédia de idade de 64,5 anos, a maioria para correção de hérnia de disco. Em todos os casos, a visualização do pedículo foi possível emtoda a sua extensão e não foi registrado caso de invasão do forame. O tempo de cirurgia foi de 98 minutos em média, sem necessidade de transfusões ou complicações exigindo internação em unidade de terapia intensiva. Houve um caso de infecção. Conclusões A técnica Scotty Dog de monitoramento por imagem da coluna permite fácil visualização de todo o pedículo e inserção do parafuso com segurança, com nenhum caso de invasão foraminal nesta série de casos.

Transforaminal Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy for Lumbar Disc Herniation in Parkinson's Disease: A Case-Control Study

STUDY DESIGN: A case-control study. PURPOSE: To investigate the effectiveness of transforaminal percutaneous endoscopic discectomy (TPED) in Parkinson's disease (PD). OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Patients with PD frequently suffer from radiculopathy and low back pain. Additionally, they demonstrate higher complication rates after open spine surgery. However, the clinical outcome of minimally invasive techniques for lumbar discectomy, such as TPED, have not been established for this population. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with lumbar disc hernia were divided into Group A (11 patients diagnosed with PD), and Group B (10 patients as the control, non-PD group). All patients underwent TPED. Indexes of visual analogue scale (VAS) for leg pain and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were assessed right before surgery and at six weeks, three months, six months and one year post-surgery. RESULTS: At the baseline visit, groups did not differ significantly with age (p=0.724), gender (p=0.835), level of operation (p=0.407), ODI (p=0.497) and VAS (p=0.772). Parkinson's patients had higher scores in ODI at every visit, but the outcome was statistically significant only at 3 months (p=0.004) and one year (p=0.007). Similarly, VAS measurements were higher at each time point, with the difference being significant at 3 (p<0.001), 6 (0.021), and 12 (p<0.001) months after surgery. At the end of a year of follow up, ODI was reduced by 49.6% (±16.7) in Group A and 59.2% (±8.0) in Group B (p=0.111), translating to a 79.5% (±13.0) and 91.5% (±4.1) average improvement in daily functionality (p=0.024). VAS was reduced by 59.1 mm (±11.8) in Group A and 62.2 mm (±7.4) in Group B (p=0.485), leading to an 85.3 % (±4.0) and 91.9% (±2.6) general improvement in leg pain (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that TPED led to satisfactory improvement in leg pain and daily living in PD patients a year after surgery.

Transforaminal Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy in Parkinson Disease: Preliminary Results and Short Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE: To study the effectiveness of Transforaminal Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy (TPED) for lumbar disc herniation in patients with Parkinson disease (PD). METHODS: Fifteen patients diagnosed with PD and lumbar disc hernia were recruited to the study. All patients underwent TPED. Mean age was 61.27±6 years, with 8 male (53.3%) and 7 female patients (46.7%). Level of operation was L3-4 (33.3%), L4-5 (33.3%) and L5-S1 (33.3%). Visual analogue scale (VAS) for leg pain and Oswestry Disabillity Index (ODI) for back pain, as well as the Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) for health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed right before surgery and at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: VAS and ODI showed significant (p<0.005) reduction one year after TPED, with a percentage improvement of 83.9% and 79.4%, respectively. Similarly, all aspects of quality of life (SF-36) were significantly (p<0.005) improved 1 year after the procedure. Bodily pain and role physical demonstrated the highest increase followed by role emotional, physical function, social function, vitality, mental health, and general health. Beneficial impact of TPED on clinical outcome and HRQoL was independent of gender and operated level. CONCLUSION: TPED is effective in reducing lower limb symptoms and low back pain in patients with lumbar disc hernia, suffering from PD. Positive effect of endoscopy is, also, evident in HRQoL of those patients one year after the procedure.

A Modified Approach of Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) for Far Lateral Disc Herniation at L5-S1 with Foot Drop

Foraminal or extraforaminal Far Lateral Disc Herniations (FLDH) extending into or beyond the foraminal zone have been recognized as between 7-12% of all lumbosacral disc herniations. Conventional posterior laminectomy may not provide good access to a herniation that lies far lateral to the lateral margin of the pedicle. Use of the endoscopic technique through a percutaneous approach to treat such FLDH patients can decrease the surgical morbidity while achieving better outcomes. We made an effort to utilize the advantages of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) and to determine the appropriate approach for FLDH at the level between the 5th Lumbar and first Sacral vertebrae(L5-S1). The authors present a case of an endoscopically resected lumbar extruded disc of the left extraforaminal zone with superior foraminal migration at the level of L5-S1, which had led to foot drop, while placing the endoscope in the anterior epidural space without facetectomy.

Nefopam Reduces Dysesthesia after Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

BACKGROUND: Neuropathic pain, including paresthesia/dysesthesia in the lower extremities, always develops and remains for at least one month, to variable degrees, after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). The recently discovered dual analgesic mechanisms of action, similar to those of antidepressants and anticonvulsants, enable nefopam (NFP) to treat neuropathic pain. This study was performed to determine whether NFP might reduce the neuropathic pain component of postoperative pain. METHODS: Eighty patients, who underwent PELD due to herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) at L4-L5, were randomly divided into two equal groups, one receiving NFP (with a mixture of morphine and ketorolac) and the other normal saline (NS) with the same mixture. The number of bolus infusions and the infused volume for 3 days were compared in both groups. The adverse reactions (ADRs) in both groups were recorded and compared. The neuropathic pain symptom inventory (NPSI) score was compared in both groups on postoperative days 1, 3, 7, 30, 60, and 90. RESULTS: The mean attempted number of bolus infusions, and effective infused bolus volume for 3 days was lower in the NFP group for 3 days. The most commonly reported ADRs were nausea, dizziness, and somnolence, in order of frequency in the NFP group. The median NPSI score, and all 5 median sub-scores in the NFP group, were significantly lower than that of the NS group until postoperative day 30. CONCLUSIONS: NFP significantly reduced the neuropathic pain component, including paresthesia/dysesthesia until 1 month after PELD. The common ADRs were nausea, dizziness, somnolence, and ataxia.

Safe Sedation and Hypnosis using Dexmedetomidine for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in a Prone Position

Dexmedetomidine, an imidazoline compound, is a highly selective alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist with sympatholytic, sedative, amnestic, and analgesic properties. In order to minimize the patients' pain and anxiety during minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) when compared to conventional surgery under general anesthesia, an adequate conscious sedation (CS) or monitored anesthetic care (MAC) should be provided. Commonly used intravenous sedatives and hypnotics, such as midazolam and propofol, are not suitable for operations in a prone position due to undesired respiratory depression. Dexmedetomidine converges on an endogenous non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep-promoting pathway to exert its sedative effects. The great merit of dexmedetomidine for CS or MAC is the ability of the operator to recognize nerve damage during percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy, a representative MISS. However, there are 2 shortcomings for dexmedetomidine in MISS: hypotension/bradycardia and delayed emergence. Its hypotension/bradycardiac effects can be prevented by ketamine intraoperatively. Using atipamezole (an alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist) might allow doctors to control the rate of recovery from procedural sedation in the future. MAC, with other analgesics such as ketorolac and opioids, creates ideal conditions for MISS. In conclusion, dexmedetomidine provides a favorable surgical condition in patients receiving MISS in a prone position due to its unique properties of conscious sedation followed by unconscious hypnosis with analgesia. However, no respiratory depression occurs based on the dexmedetomidine-related endogenous sleep pathways involves the inhibition of the locus coeruleus in the pons, which facilitates VLPO firing in the anterior hypothalamus.

Safe Sedation and Hypnosis using Dexmedetomidine for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in a Prone Position

Dexmedetomidine, an imidazoline compound, is a highly selective alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist with sympatholytic, sedative, amnestic, and analgesic properties. In order to minimize the patients' pain and anxiety during minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) when compared to conventional surgery under general anesthesia, an adequate conscious sedation (CS) or monitored anesthetic care (MAC) should be provided. Commonly used intravenous sedatives and hypnotics, such as midazolam and propofol, are not suitable for operations in a prone position due to undesired respiratory depression. Dexmedetomidine converges on an endogenous non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep-promoting pathway to exert its sedative effects. The great merit of dexmedetomidine for CS or MAC is the ability of the operator to recognize nerve damage during percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy, a representative MISS. However, there are 2 shortcomings for dexmedetomidine in MISS: hypotension/bradycardia and delayed emergence. Its hypotension/bradycardiac effects can be prevented by ketamine intraoperatively. Using atipamezole (an alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist) might allow doctors to control the rate of recovery from procedural sedation in the future. MAC, with other analgesics such as ketorolac and opioids, creates ideal conditions for MISS. In conclusion, dexmedetomidine provides a favorable surgical condition in patients receiving MISS in a prone position due to its unique properties of conscious sedation followed by unconscious hypnosis with analgesia. However, no respiratory depression occurs based on the dexmedetomidine-related endogenous sleep pathways involves the inhibition of the locus coeruleus in the pons, which facilitates VLPO firing in the anterior hypothalamus.

Nucleoplasty as a therapeutic option for lumbar disc degeneration related pain: a retrospective study of 396 cases / Nucleoplastia como opção terapêutica para dor relacionada à degeneração do disco lombar: um estudo retrospectivo de 396 casos

OBJECTIVES: To make a retrospective analysis and evaluate a clinical response to the control of disc degeneration related pain of 396 patients submitted to percutaneous lumbar nucleoplasty; and to make a record of visual analogical scale (VAS) up to a three-year follow-up after the surgical procedure. METHODS: Analysis of VAS score in 396 patients with lumbar disc degeneration related pain, according to anamnesis, clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), without improvement of previous clinical treatment, submitted to percutaneous nucleoplasty. RESULTS: A total of 26% of the patients presented 100% remission of pain or paresthesia, of whom 75% showed at least 50% of pain improvement. The median VAS pain improvement was about 67%. CONCLUSIONS: The median VAS improvement in inferior disc levels was higher than four points. The VAS showed improvement of the pain and paresthesia up to a three-year follow up after the surgical procedure.

OBJETIVOS: Analisar retrospectivamente a resposta clínica no controle da dor relacionada à degeneração discal em 396 pacientes submetidos à nucleoplastia percutânea lombar; e fazer um registro da escala analógica visual (EAV) com seguimento de três anos após a cirurgia. MÉTODOS: Análise da EAV de 396 pacientes com diagnóstico de hérnia de disco, de acordo com anamnese, exame clínico e imagens por meio de ressonância magnética (RM), sendo que nenhum deles apresentou melhora com tratamento clínico prévio. Estes pacientes foram submetidos à nucleoplastia percutânea. O estudo utilizou, para avaliação, o registro de escala analógica visual (EAV) durante seguimento de até três anos após o procedimento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Um total de 26% apresentou 100% de remissão da dor ou parestesia; 75% apresentaram pelo menos 50% de melhora da dor. A mediana da EAV de melhora da dor foi de aproximadamente 67%. CONCLUSÕES: Houve melhora da EAV, com mediana maior do que quatro pontos nos pacientes com acometimento nos níveis discais inferiores. A EAV mostrou melhora da dor e parestesia num período de seguimento de até três anos após o procedimento cirúrgico.

Endoscopic interlaminar lumbar discectomy with splitting of ligamentum flavum / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:Transforaminal endoscopic discectomy needs to dissociate the ligamentum flavum, and if combined with the continuous dilator and working channel, it can keep the intact ligamentum flavum no matter how smal the incision may be (even 3-5 mm). OBJECTIVE:To present the technique of interlaminar endoscopic lumbar discectomy with ligamentum flavum splitting. METHODS:We performed operations on 16 male and 14 female patients by interlaminar endoscopic lumbar discectomy with ligamentum flavum splitting. The average age of the patients in the study was (48±15) years. The chief complaint before surgery was radiculopathy confined to one leg. The anatomic operative level was L 3-4 in one case, L 4-5 in 13 cases and L 5-S 1 in 16 cases. The ruptured disc migrated superiorly in four cases and inferiorly in seven cases, and intraoperative electromyo-graphic monitoring was performed in al surgeries. The ligamentum flavum was split, and after withdrawing the working channel, the ligamentum flavum could reset itself. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:The total operation time was 20-40 minutes, and the fol ow-up period was (149±108) days. There were no abnormal signals on the intraoperative electromyography in any cases, and the reported symptoms were immediately improved in al patients after the operation. Fol ow-up magneticresonance imaging showed a disappearance of the ruptured disc without defect in the ligamentum flavum. There were no operation-associated complications in al the patients. Interlaminar endoscopic lumbar discectomy with ligamentum flavum splitting is a feasible approach.

Evaluation of an Experimentally Designed Stereotactic Guidance System for Determining Needle Entry Point during Uniplanar Fluoroscopy-guided Intervention

BACKGROUND: In discography performed during percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) via the posterolateral approach, it is difficult to create a fluoroscopic tunnel view because a long needle is required for discography and the guide-wire used for consecutive PELD interrupts rotation of fluoroscope. A stereotactic system was designed to facilitate the determination of the needle entry point, and the feasibility of this system was evaluated during interventional spine procedures. METHODS: A newly designed stereotactic guidance system underwent a field test application for PELD. Sixty patients who underwent single-level PELD at L4-L5 were randomly divided into conventional or stereotactic groups. PELD was performed via the posterolateral approach using the entry point on the skin determined by premeasured distance from the midline and angles according to preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Needle entry accuracy provided by the two groups was determined by comparing the distance and angle measured by postoperative computed tomography with those measured by preoperative MRI. The duration and radiation exposure for determining the entry point were measured in the groups. RESULTS: The new stereotactic guidance system and the conventional method provided similarly accurate entry points for discography and consecutive PELD. However, the new stereotactic guidance system lowered the duration and radiation exposure for determining the entry point. CONCLUSIONS: The new stereotactic guidance system under fluoroscopy provided a reliable needle entry point for discography and consecutive PELD. Furthermore, it reduced the duration and radiation exposure associated with determining needle entry.

Comparative Study of the Outcomes of Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy and Microscopic Lumbar Discectomy Using the Tubular Retractor System Based on the VAS, ODI, and SF-36

OBJECTIVE: Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) and microdiscectomy with the microscope endoscopic tubular retractor system(METRx-MD) are considered popular minimally invasive surgery (MIS) methods for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. Many authors have also reported good clinical outcomes of these methods, but there are few comparative studies of them. This report compares the clinical outcomes of PELD and METRx-MD for lumbar disc herniation as MIS methods and discusses the efficacy of PELD. METHODS: Seventy-two patients who had undergone single-level unilateral discectomy using two different methods, PELD and METRx-MD, between 2009 and 2011 were given a follow-up examination prospectively. Thirty-seven of these patients underwent discectomy using PELD, and the remaining 35 patients underwent discectomy using METRx-MD. In addition to the general parameters, clinical outcomes were assessed as specific parameters using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the Short-form 36 (SF-36), and the return-to-work time. RESULTS: Sixty-seven percent (25/37) of the patients in the PELD group and 74%(26/35) in the METRx-MD group were included in follow-up more than 6 months post-operatively. The mean improvements in the VAS scores for the back pain, leg pain, and ODI were 2.6, 4.8, and 30.1% for the PELD group and 2.8, 4.6, and 33.2% for the METRx-MD group, respectively. The SF-36 physical health component subscale score improved from 40.6 pre-operatively to 68.3 at the last follow-up for the PELD group post-operatively, and from 48.5 to 65.1 in the mental component subscale (METRx-MD group: from 34.4 to 66.5 and from 44.87 to 56.7). Complications occurred in 3/37 patients in the PELD group and in 2/35 patients in the METRx-MD group in the peri-operative period. The mean return-to-work times were 37.5 days in the PELD group and 42.5 days in the METRx-MD group. CONCLUSION: The outcomes for the PELD group are comparable to those for the METRx-MD group. It can thus be concluded that PELD for lumbar disk herniations may be performed safely and effectively. Also, PELD can be considered one of the treatment modalities of lumbar disk herniation.

Use of Lidocaine Patch for Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

BACKGROUND: Lidocaine patch (L5P) has demonstrated short-term efficacy in treating both acute surgical pain and chronic neuropathic pain with tolerable side effects. Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is the mainstay of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). Sufficient analgesia during PELD surgery makes the patient consider it real MISS. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of lidocaine patch in patients who underwent PELD under local anesthesia. METHODS: L5P (L group) or placebo (P group) was randomly applied on the skin of the back covering the anticipated path of the working channel before 1 hour of surgery in 100 patients who underwent a single level PELD at L4-L5. Efficacy of the lidocaine patch was assessed by patient's numeric rating scale (NRS) of pain at each stage during the surgery and by a 5-scale grading of the satisfaction with the anesthesia of the operator and patients after surgery. RESULTS: Mean NRS scores at the stages of needle insertion, skin incision, serial dilation and insertion of working channel, and subcutaneous suture were significantly lower in the L group than the P group. Postoperative operator's and patients' satisfaction scores were also significantly higher in L group than in the P group. There were subtle adverse effects in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: L5P provided better pain relief during PELD, especially at the stage of needle insertion, skin incision, serial dilation and insertion of working channel, and subcutaneous suture. It also provided higher patient and operator postoperative satisfaction, with only subtle adverse effects.

Revisional Percutaneous Full Endoscopic Disc Surgery for Recurrent Herniation of Previous Open Lumbar Discectomy

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility and effectiveness of revisional percutaneous full endoscopic discectomy for recurrent herniation after conventional open disc surgery. OVERVIEW OF THE LITERATURE: Repeated open discectomy with or without fusion has been the most common procedure for recurrent lumbar disc herniation. Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy for recurrent herniation has been thought of as an impossible procedure. Despite good results with open revisional surgery, major problems may be caused by injuries to the posterior stabilized structures. Our team did revisional full endoscopic lumbar disc surgery on the basis of our experience doing primary full endoscopic disc surgery. METHODS: Between February 2004 and August 2009 a total of 41 patients in our hospital underwent revisional percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy using a YESS endoscopic system and a micro-osteotome (designed by the authors). Indications for surgery were recurrent disc herniation following conventional open discectomy; with compression of the nerve root revealed by Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging; corresponding radiating pain which was not alleviated after conservative management over 6 weeks. Patients with severe neurologic deficits and isolated back pain were excluded. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 16 months (range, 13 to 42 months). The visual analog scale for pain in the leg and back showed significant post-treatment improvement (p < 0.001). Based on a modified version of MacNab's criteria, 90.2% showed excellent or good outcomes. There was no measurable blood loss. There were two cases of recurrence of and four cases with complications. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous full-endoscopic revisional disc surgery without additional structural damage is feasible and effective in terms of there being less chance of fusion and bleeding. This technique can be an alternative to conventional repeated discectomy.

Clinical Outcome of Minimally Invasive Tubular Retractor Assisted Microscopic Discectomy in Far Lateral Lumbar Disc Herniation

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to analyze the clinical outcomes of the minimally invasive approach for the surgical treatment of far lateral lumbar disc herniation. METHODS: Between January 2007 and May 2009, 19 patients who underwent minimally invasive, tubular retractor-assisted microscopic discectomy were retrospectively reviewed. The patients included 11 men and eight women with a mean age of 58 years. The mean symptom duration before surgery was 6.5 months, and the mean follow up time was 20.5 months. Clinical outcomes were assessed according to neurologic status, bleeding volume, surgical time, length of hospital stay, visual analogue scale (VAS) and the modified MacNab's criteria. RESULTS: The most frequent lesion was at the L4-L5 level (53%), and the mean bleeding volume was 59.3ml. The mean surgical time and length of hospital stay were 91.1 minutes and 6.4 days, respectively. The mean VAS for radicular pain was improved from 8.37 +/- 1.11 before surgery to 1.37 +/- 1.33 (P<0.05) at discharge and 0.68 +/- 0.89 one year after surgery. The mean VAS for back pain was decreased from 4.6 3 +/- 0.99 before surgery to 2.00 +/- 1.23 (P<0.05) at discharge and 0.42 +/- 0.61 one year after surgery. The success rates were 100% according to the modified MacNab's criteria, and there were no postoperative complications or recurrences. CONCLUSIONS: The minimally invasive, tubular retractor-assisted microscopic discectomy method is a safe and effective procedure and may be an alternative for treating far lateral lumbar disc herniations.