RESUMO
In this study the relation between the extent and type of disc protrusion and the clinical severity of symptoms of low back pain was observed. Our series consisted of 300 consecutive cases of lumbar disc protrusion,with their diagnosis confirmed by intraoperative observation. Preoperative pain severity was assessed using a back pain scale that combined the symptoms of back pain and sciatica. Intraoperaative pathological findings of disc were documented and comparesd with preoperative symptoms and signs. The pathological changes of disc were classified as following four subtypes: bulging disc (85 cases), protruding disc (104 cases), extruded disc (72 cases) and sequestered disc (39 cases). Our results suggest that severity of pain in patients with herniated lumbar disc is related to position of herniation rather than magnitude and exent of herniation. Inflammed intraspinal tissues are significantly associated with low back pain and sciatica.