Arthroscopic microdiskectomy.

Arthroscopic microdiskectomy through a posterolateral approach has opened a new window of opportunity in the treatment of lumbar disk disorders. Radiographic identification of the triangular working zone has permitted the safe introduction of instruments with an external diameter of 7-8 mm into the intervertebral disk. The technique allows not only evacuation and decompression of contained herniated disks, but also the introduction of instruments for decortication of the vertebral plates and bone grafting for percutaneous interbody fusion. Endoscopic laser nucleolysis, currently under investigation, may also enhance existing technological achievement in the field of minimal-intervention spinal surgery. Arthroscopic microdiskectomy has proven to be safe, effective, and cost efficient. In properly selected patients, satisfactory results of approximately 85% have been realized.