Percutaneous nucleus pulposus denaturation in treatment of lumbar disc protrusions--a prospective study of 50 neurosurgical patients.

In a prospective study on 50 patients, the 1064-nm Nd-YAG laser was used to denaturate protruding lumbar discs. The method of Ascher [1] was modified using a saline pressure infusion system. Early results show a very good decompressive effect with 48 out of 50 patients in the categories very good and good. At follow-up (mean 184 days postoperation) 31 out of 46 were in these categories, indicating a longer lasting retrieval of the protruded mass. A marked reduction of clinical nerve compression signs was noted. No severe complications occurred. Due to the irrigation system less low back pain was reported. The method seems promising in the standard neurosurgical setting.