Results of operation for lumbar disc protrusions in children.

Intervertebral disc protrusions are rare in children and adolescents, and we report our experience of 9 cases, all of whom were girls. Diagnostic problems are common and objective findings dominate the clinical picture at this age. Eight patients were treated by operation; no spinal fusions were carried out. Six patients with a follow up of from 6 to 15 years were reviewed. There were no recurrences, but episodes of low back did occur. Radiographs showed a variable diminution in the height of the disc in every case.