[Endoscopic treatment of intervertebral disk displacement. Percutaneous transforaminal access to the epidural space. Indications, technique and initial results].

The authors report their experiences with the percutaneous transforaminal approach to the epidural space. 85 patients were treated endoscopically for non-contained lumbar herniated discs. Very good and good results of 20 patients (learning curve) were obtained in 65%. However, reoperation rate was 25% versus 3% for the last 65 patients. The first 50 patients were treated under local anaesthesia, the last 35 patients under general anaesthesia. Operative technique is described in detail. Laser application in the epidural space is helpful for tissue ablation and to obtain hemostasis. No complications were observed. The main advantages of this new minimal invasive technique are, besides reduced morbidity, less epidural scarring and removal of the sequestered tissue under visual control while retaining disc tissue in the intervertebral space. Thus, the disadvantages of open nucleotomy with possible instability and abundant scarring may be avoided.