Lumbar microendoscopic discectomy: surgical technique and nuances.

Abstract

Lumbar microendoscopic discectomy (MED) is a minimally invasive transmuscular approach that combines standard lumbar microsurgical techniques with endoscopy. MED advantages include reduced tissue trauma, direct visualization of the nerve root and disc disease, and allowing bony decompression in cases with spinal or lateral recess stenosis. Operative charts and videos of patients undergoing MED were retrieved from our database and reviewed. A description of the surgical technique was then formulated. The surgical technique of MED is described and is essentially similar to conventional microdiscectomy. Some modifications are, however, necessary owing to the difference between microscopic and endoscopic views.