Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation Research Articles

EPIDEMIOLOGICALRISK FACTORS OF RECURRENCE OF LUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC HERNIATION AFTER PRIMARY DISCECTOMY (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Primary discectomy for a lumbar intervertebral disc herniated (LDH) is usually accompanied by a rapid regression of clinical symptoms, however, in 5–15 % of cases, an X-ray positive recurrence of the hernia with corresponding orthopedic disorders is registered, which leads to repeated surgical intervention. Objective. Determination of risk factors for recurrence of LDH and their frequency under the conditions of various methods of primary discectomy based on a scientific analysis of the relevant literature. Methods. The material of the research is articles containing the definition of risk factors for the recurrence of a LDH after primary discectomy, for the period 2013–2023 in PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline databases using medical subject headings and keywords «recurrent lumbar disc herniation, surgical interventions, percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy, microdiscectomy, laminectomy, discectomy, spondylodesis». The research method is a systematic review of relevant literature sources. Results. Early and long-term results of primary discectomy for intervertebral disc herniation using decompression (open discectomy, microendoscopic discectomy, percutaneous discectomy, laminectomy, minidiscectomy, endoscopic discectomy) and decompression-stabilization (discectomy combined with spondylodesis) techniques are traced in the literature. The most successful were: 1 year after the operation — endoscopic discectomy (12.4 % of reoperations) and spondylodesis (11.8 %); 10 years after the operation — laminectomy (14 %) and spondylodesis (10 %). The highest rates of revision discectomy: 1 year after the operation — laminectomy (18.6 %); 10 years after surgery — open discectomy and endoscopic discectomy — 16 % each. Conclusions. Recurrent intervertebral disc herniation is an early complication of primary discectomy, the frequency of which varies depending on the surgical technique and the timing of the postoperative period. The most reliable risk factors are male gender, age younger than 50 years, diabetes mellitus, and smoking.

New hernia blocking device prevents recurrence of lumbar disc herniation

New hernia blocking device prevents recurrence of lumbar disc herniation

Advancing insights into recurrent lumbar disc herniation: A comparative analysis of surgical approaches and a new classification.

The management of recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH) lacks a consensus. Consequently, the choice between repeat microdiscectomy (MD) without fusion, discectomy with fusion, or endoscopic discectomy without fusion typically hinges on the surgeon's expertise. This study conducts a comparative analysis of postoperative outcomes among these three techniques and proposes a straightforward classification system for rLDH aimed at optimizing management. We examined the patients treated for rLDH at our institution. Based on the presence of facet resection, Modic-2 changes, and segmental instability, they patients were categorized into three groups: Types I, II, and III rLDH managed by repeat MD without fusion, MD with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) (MD + TLIF), and transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (TFED), respectively. A total of 127 patients were included: 52 underwent MD + TLIF, 50 underwent MD alone, and 25 underwent TFED. Recurrence rates were 20%, 12%, and 0% for MD alone, TFED, and MD + TLIF, respectively. A facetectomy exceeding 75% correlated with an 84.6% recurrence risk, while segmental instability correlated with a 100% recurrence rate. Modic-2 changes were identified in 86.7% and 100% of patients experiencing recurrence following MD and TFED, respectively. TFED exhibited the lowest risk of durotomy (4%), the shortest operative time (70.80 ± 16.5), the least blood loss (33.60 ± 8.1), and the most favorable Visual Analog Scale score, and Oswestry Disability Index quality of life assessment at 2 years. No statistically significant differences were observed in these parameters between MD alone and MD + TLIF. Based on this analysis, a novel classification system for recurrent disc herniation was proposed. In young patients without segmental instability, prior facetectomy, and Modic-2 changes, TFED was available should take precedence over repeat MD alone. However, for patients with segmental instability, MD + TLIF is recommended. The suggested classification system has the potential to enhance patient selection and overall outcomes.

Indication and Limitation of Intradiscal Condoliase Injection for Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation: Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.

Intradiscal condoliase injection for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) was developed in Japan in 2018. The treatment is intermediate between conservative therapy and surgery, and its frequency is increasing. Condoliase is limited to a single application over a lifetime, rendering it important to understand the indications and predictors of its effectiveness. This review aimed to summarize published studies and provide appropriate indications and limitations for appropriate patient selection based on existing findings. While adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases to identify articles reporting the clinical outcomes of intradiscal condoliase injection for LDH. Data extraction focused on the effective rate, prognostic factors, and posttreatment imaging changes and was used in the meta-analysis. Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Our meta-analysis revealed 78% total response, 11% posttreatment surgery, and 42% posttreatment Pfirrmann-classification-grade progression rates. Posttreatment intervertebral disc degeneration was potentially associated with an improved response rate and disc regeneration one year posttreatment, especially in young patients. The Regimen for patients aged <20 and >70 years should be carefully selected, including those with a disease duration of >1 year, recurrent LDH, small-sized LDH, vertebral instability, and inadequate duration (<3 months) of conservative therapy. Although long-term outcomes and imaging changes must be evaluated owing to the heterogeneity of previous studies, intradiscal condoliase injection is a minimally invasive and cost-effective treatment option for patients with LDH. Treatment indications should be determined after carefully evaluating evidence from previous conservative and surgical treatments.

Nomogram Development and Validation for Predicting Postoperative Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation Based on Paraspinal Muscle Parameters.

Previous studies highlight paraspinal muscles' significance in spinal stability. This study aims to assess paraspinal muscle predictiveness for postoperative recurrent lumbar disc herniation (PRLDH) after lumbar disc herniation patients undergo percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD). Retrospectively collected data from 232 patients undergoing PETD treatment at our institution between January 2020 and January 2023, randomly allocated into training (60%) and validation (40%) groups. Utilizing Lasso regression and multivariable logistic regression, independent risk factors were identified in the training set to construct a Nomogram model. Internal validation employed Enhanced Bootstrap, with Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) assessing accuracy. Calibration was evaluated through calibration curves and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. Decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve (CIC) were employed for clinical utility analysis. Diabetes, Modic changes, and ipsilesional multifidus muscle skeletal muscle index (SMI) were independent predictive factors for PRLDH following PETD (P<0.05). Developed Nomogram model based on selected predictors, uploaded to a web page. AUC for training: 0.921 (95% CI 0.872-0.970), validation: 0.900 (95% CI 0.828-0.972), respectively. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test yielded χ 2=5.638/6.259, P=0.688/0.618, and calibration curves exhibited good fit between observed and predicted values. DCA and CIC demonstrate clinical net benefit for both models at risk thresholds of 0.02-1.00 and 0.02-0.80. The Nomogram predictive model developed based on paraspinal muscle parameters in this study demonstrates excellent predictive capability and aids in personalized risk assessment for PRLDH following PETD.

Is Surgical Treatment Optimal for Early Postoperative Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation?

Is Surgical Treatment Optimal for Early Postoperative Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation?

Functional Outcomes After Discectomy for Recurrent Lumbar Herniation Using the Destandau Endospine System: A Retrospective Study of 44 Patients.

Background Recurrent disc herniation is a major cause of morbidity and surgical failure after disc surgery. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of the Destandau endospine system (DES) for treating recurrent lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methodology A total of 44 patients who underwent minimally invasive Destandau endoscopic lumbar discectomy (DELD) for recurrent LDH were included in this study. All data were collected retrospectively. The preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score was used for the evaluation and gradation of pain. The clinical outcome was analyzed according to modified MacNab criteria. The minimum follow-up was two years. Preoperative and postoperative VAS scores were compared using the paired Student's t-test. Statistical significance was set at a p-value <0.05. Results The mean surgical time was 30 ± 20 minutes. The VAS score for leg pain was improved in all cases from 5.9 ± 2.1 to 1.7 ± 1.3 (p< 0.001). In 98% of cases, a successful outcome was noted (excellent or good outcome according to MacNab criteria). In three (7%) patients, incidental durotomy occurred, but there was no neurological worsening, cerebrospinal fluid fistula, or negative influence on the clinical outcome. No recurrence or instability occurred in our series. Conclusions The clinical outcomes of minimally invasive DES for LDH were found to be comparable with the reported success rates of other minimally invasive techniques reported in the existing literature. The dural tear rate was independent of postoperative morbidity and functional outcome. The technique is a safe and effective treatment option for recurrent LDH.

Factors Influencing Recurrence Rates and Surgical Outcomes in Lumbar Microdiscectomy: A Retrospective Study of 130 Patients in Turkey.

BACKGROUND Lumbar disc herniation surgery, specifically lumbar microdiscectomy, shows recurrence in 3-24% of patients, necessitating potential re-operations. This study focuses on the outcomes and recurrence causes in 130 cases of lumbar disc herniations. These cases were managed by a single surgeon at a single center, offering a unique perspective on a common issue in neurosurgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study involved 130 patients treated for lumbar disc herniations. Analysis considered various factors: age, sex, symptoms, surgical level, complications, pre- and postoperative pain levels, and quality of life indices. RESULTS Of the 130 cases analyzed, all underwent initial surgery by the same surgeon or sought treatment from this surgeon after recurrence. Inclusion criteria were based on radiologic and clinical indications for re-operation. The demographic split was 76 males (56.4%) and 54 females (43.6%). A notable finding was a higher recurrence rate in males and patients under 45 years, although the sex difference was not statistically significant. The average age was 47.5 years. Significant changes were noted in the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) levels during follow-ups (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the effectiveness of lumbar microsurgery in treating recurrent lumbar disc herniations. Techniques such as medial facet utilization and laminectomy border expansion show promise. However, determining instability rates requires long-term patient follow-up. Our findings contribute valuable insights into surgical approaches and patient outcomes in recurrent lumbar disc herniation cases.

Clinical Effects of the End-Love Technique in the Treatment of Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation 1 Year After Surgery.

The number of patients with lumbar disc herniation in China is increasing year by year. Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is currently the main surgical method for treating lumbar disc herniation (LDH). However, with the increase in the number of surgical cases, the number of patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation (RLDH) is also increasing. Currently, the common method in China is lumbar fusion surgery, but this surgery would cause the loss of fusion segment mobility and considerable postoperative complications. In order to solve the problem above the following technique will be studied: the technique of posterior lumbar laminectomy and nucleus pulposus removal under fully visualized spinal endoscopy (ENDO-LOVE) to treat RLDH. Its clinical effects will be observed in this paper, too. This series includes RLDH patients treated with ENDO-LOVE technology between January 2017 and January 2021. All patients will undergo at least three follow-up visits one year after surgery. The modified MacNab standard, VAS, JOA, and ODI scores will be used to evaluate clinical efficacy, observe for cerebrospinal fluid leak, nerve root injury, and surgical site infection, and evaluate clinical safety. All 29 patients completed the surgery successfully. Three patients had postoperative pain and numbness in the area of nerve root innervation, and all patients had no serious complications. The VAS, JOA scores and ODI indices of back pain and leg pain 1-day, 3-months, and 1-year postoperatively differed statistically significantly from the preoperative scores (p < 0.05). Efficacy evaluated at 1-year postoperatively using the modified MacNab criteria showed an excellent rate of 89.7%. ENDO-LOVE technology has demonstrated good clinical efficacy and safety in the treatment of patients with RLDH. It should be considered for all patients with this condition.

The Importance of Spinopelvic Parameters in Recurrent Lumbar Disk Herniation.

Retrospective clinical study. We aimed to investigate preoperative spinopelvic mismatch as a risk factor for recurrent lumbar disk herniation (RLDH) in patients undergoing lumbar disk herniation (LDH) surgery. Spinopelvic parameters have been associated with lumbar degenerative diseases, particularly LDH. However, the relationship between these parameters and RLDH has yet to be studied. Data of 1453 patients aged ≥18 who underwent single-level, unilateral fenestration microdiscectomy for the first time in our hospital between 2013 and 2019 were reviewed. The study group comprised 88 patients who underwent surgery for RLDH. The control group comprised 101 randomly selected patients who underwent surgery for LDH but not RLDH. Age, sex, body mass index, occupational activity level, operative level, Roussouly classification type, and time to recurrence were recorded. Moreover, pelvic incidence, lumbar lordosis (LL), interverteberal disk height (IDH), segmental lordosis, sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral table angle (ST) were measured for each patient. Pelvic mismatch was calculated. Mean age was 46.5±11.4y (range, 20-70). Both groups were similar concerning age, sex, body mass index, occupational activity level, and level of surgery. The mean time to recurrence was 167.3±36.6d (range, 62-363). Measurements in the RLDH group were as follows: IDH=7.6±1.5mm, pelvic incidence =54.4°±10.1°, LL=47.3°±13°, segmental lordosis =9.3°±5°, SS=35.1°±9.9°, and PT=19.3°±7.3°. Mean IDH was significantly lower in the RLDH group ( P =0.02). Less LL and lower PT at L3-4 level and increased SS at L5-S1 level were considered risk factors for RLDH. This study showed that preoperative low IDH is at higher risk for RLDH in patients undergoing LDH surgery. LL, PT, and SS may be risk factors for specific levels.

Recurrence of lumbar disk herniation after microdiscectomy: a two-center retrospective analysis of 1214 cases and identification of risk factors.

To present the incidence of recurrent lumbar disc herniation (RLDH) and to identify radiological and patient-related risk factors that lead to recurrence after lumbar disc herniation (LDH) treatment with microdiscectomy. Between January 2013 and December 2021, 1214 patients who had undergone microdiscectomy for LDH were included in this retrospective study. Patients were divided into two groups, the recurrent group and the non-recurrent group, and their demographic, clinical and radiologic characteristics were recorded. The association between the variables and RLDH was assessed by univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Mean ages were similar in the recurrent (51.48 ± 13.63) and non-recurrent(50.38 ± 14.53) groups (p=0.232). Males represented 59.6% of the recurrent group and 49.8% of the non-recurrent group (p=0.002). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that being a male (p=0.009), diabetes mellitus (p=0.038), smoking (p<0.001), grade 4&5 disc degeneration (p<0.001), and having protruded (p=0.002), extruded LDH (p<0.001), paracentral (p=0.008) and foraminal LDH (p=0.008) were independently associated with recurrence. To reduce RLDH frequency and need for revision surgery, modifiable risk factors should be minimized before and after the initial surgery. Also, in patients with unmodifiable risk factors, patients should be clearly informed about the risk for recurrence and possible alternative treatment methods should be considered.

Early Recurrence of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Retrospective Analysis of the Role of Discectomy Volume and Other Influencing Factors

Objective:&#x0D; The aim of this study is to conduct a detailed examination of cases of "Early Recurrence" encountered following lumbar disc herniation, and to compare the data obtained with findings in the existing literature.&#x0D; Materials and Methods:&#x0D; This retrospective study was conducted by analyzing the data of 856 patients who were operated for recurrent lumbar hernia in our hospital between 2012 and 2022. By expanding the definition of "early relapse" in the literature, inclusion and exclusion criteria were determined, and as a result, 43 patients who met the criteria were included in the study&#x0D; Results:&#x0D; The severity of symptoms was assessed based on patients' Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at baseline and during subsequent periods. Patients requiring reoperation within the first 12 months were divided into two main groups: those undergoing reoperation within the first 6 months and those undergoing reoperation between 6-12 months. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of age, gender, comorbidities, and other determinants. Notably, patients undergoing surgery within the first 3 months were observed to be of advanced age.&#x0D; Conclusion:&#x0D; When comparing the data obtained from analyzing patients with "early recurrent lumbar disc herniation" with findings shared in the literature, we found that similar variables were not significant in our series. An interesting observation is that both full endoscopic and microscopic methods have similar early recurrence rates. This is particularly noteworthy because full endoscopic discectomy usually involves sequestrectomy, and the volume of the disk removed is typically minimal. Hence, our study suggests that the volume of the disk removed during surgery may not be as influential in the development of early recurrence as previously thought. These findings provide an important foundation for future research.

Effectiveness and Safety of Decompression Alone versus Decompression Plus Fusion in Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-Analysis Study

Effectiveness and Safety of Decompression Alone versus Decompression Plus Fusion in Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-Analysis Study

Minimally invasive tubular microdiscectomy for recurrent lumbar disc herniation: step-by-step technical description with safe scar dissection

IntroductionRecurrent lumbar disc herniation (RLDH) is one of the most common reasons for re-operation after primary lumbar disc herniation with an incidence ranging from 5 to 23%. Numerous RLDH studies have been conducted; however, no available studies have provided a specific description of the use of the tubular retractor discectomy technique for RLDH emphasizing safe scar dissection. The objective of this study is to describe a detailed step-by-step technique for RLDH.Material and methodsA surgical technique reporting on our experience from the year 2013–2021 in 9 patients with RLDH at the same level and same side was included in the study. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog score (VAS) for leg pain before and three months after surgery.ResultsA significant improvement was observed between the preoperative and postoperative VASs [mean (SD): 9.2 (1) vs. 1.5 (1)] for all patients. We did not report any incidental durotomy, neurological deficits or mortality in this study. One patient had superficial wound infection. The study is limited by small population, short follow-up and not reporting stability or spondylolisthesis.ConclusionA modified tubular discectomy technique with safe scar dissection is effective for RLDH treatment. Technically, the only scar needed to be dissected is the scar lateral to the exposed normal dura and the scar extended caudally till the level of the superior end plate of the targeted disc space where the scar can be entered ventrally and the disc fragment retrieved. Adherence to the step-by-step procedure described in our study will help surgeons operate with more confidence and minimize complications of recurrent lumbar disc herniation.

Repeat discectomy and spinal fusion in the treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation: systematic review of the literature

Objective. To conduct a literature review of studies comparing the treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation using discectomy and spinal fusion.Material and Methods. A comprehensive search across four electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane) was conducted. Studies comparing the outcomes of discectomy and spinal fusion for recurrent lumbar disc herniation were analyzed. Postoperative complications, cost and duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, pain score, and recurrence rate were compared.Results. Ten studies comprising data of 1066 patients met the inclusion criteria. Discectomy was performed in 620 of them, while 446 patients underwent spinal fusion surgery. Discectomy yielded good results in VAS scores for leg and back pain, but after 3–6 months, there was no significant difference compared to spinal fusion. The recurrence rate for discectomy varied from 7.27 % to 22.91 %, while fusion had 0 % same-level recurrence. Fusion surgery had fewer complications: 1.72–28.00 % (average 11.6 %) vs 5.25–32.73 % (average 15.7 %) for discectomy. However, spinal fusion had longer operation time, greater blood loss and longer hospital stay compared to discectomy.Conclusion. Discectomy and spinal fusion are effective treatment options for recurrent lumbar disc herniation. At the same time, discectomy demonstrates a high level of initial relief of symptoms and is more cost-effective. However, the risk of recurrence is significant, and the progression of degeneration and instability may result in pain recurrence within a year. Fusion surgery provides stability and eliminates the risk of recurrence, but the main challenge is the cost of surgery. The choice of technique should be based on individual patient factors, and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach should be carefully considered.

How to spot the recurring lumbar disc? Risk factors for recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH) in adult patients with lumbar disc prolapse: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Despite a fast-growing evidence-base examining the relationship of certain clinical and radiological factors such as smoking, BMI and herniation-type with rLDH, there remains much debate around which factors are clinically important. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify risk factors for recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH) in adults after primary discectomy. A systematic literature search was carried out using Ovid-Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane library and Web of Science databases from inception to 23rd June-2022. Observational studies of adult patients with radiologically-confirmed rLDH after ≥3 months of the initial surgery were included, and their quality assessed using the Quality-In-Prognostic-Studies (QUIPS) appraisal tool. Meta-analyses of univariate and multivariate data and a sensitivity-analysis for rLDH post-microdiscectomy were performed. Twelve studies (n=4497, mean age:47.3; 34.5% female) were included, and 11 studies (n=4235) meta-analysed. The mean follow-up was 38.4 months. Mean recurrence rate was 13.1% and mean time-to-recurrence was 24.1 months (range: 6-90 months). Clinically, older age (OR:1.04, 95%CI:1.00-1.08, n=1014), diabetes mellitus (OR:3.82, 95%CI:1.58-9.26, n=2330) and smoking (OR:1.80, 95%CI:1.03- 3.14, n=3425) increased likelihood of recurrence. Radiologically, Modic-change type-2 (OR:7.93, 95%CI:5.70-11.05, n=1706) and disc extrusion (OR:12.23, 95%CI:8.60-17.38, n=1706) increased likelihood of recurrence. The evidence did not support an association between rLDH and sex; BMI; occupational labour/driving; alcohol-consumption; Pfirmann- grade, or herniation-level. Older patients, smokers, patients with diabetes, those with type-2 Modic-changes or disc extrusion are more likely to experience rLDH. Higher quality studies with robust adjustment of confounders are required to determine the clinical bearing of all other potential risk factors for rLDH.

1318 Cross-Sectional Study of Recurrent Disc Herniation Risk Factors and Predictors of Outcomes After Primary Lumbar Discectomy: A STROBE Compliance

Abstract Aim The purpose of this study is to determine if lifting weight, smoking status, occupational work, and diabetes were predictors for recurrent lumbar disk herniation (rLDH) leading to reoperation and if the outcome can be influenced by the reoperated level and side. Method From June 2010 to July 2019, the 2196 consecutive patients who underwent first-time single-level lumbar discectomy at our institution were revised. Data on first and second lumbar spine surgery were brought into the analysis. Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis was performed to determine whether lifting weight, smoking status, occupational work, and diabetes were predictors for recurrent lumbar disk herniation. Multivariable Cox-regression analysis was performed for repeated lumbar disc herniation excision at the L4L5 and L5S1 levels independently. Results From the 101(4.59%) patients that presented with recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH), 75 cases (3.41%) met the inclusion criteria. There were 54 cases of ipsilateral recurrent herniation and 21 contralateral. The group of diabetes patients who smoke was at high risk (Odds 2.77) of rapid recurrence of lumbar disc prolapse. Only the group of patients reoperated on the opposite side at the L4L5 level showed very less recurrence risk (Odd ratio 1.01) for lumbar disc prolapses compared to those reoperated on the same side who are 6.73 times at risk of recurrence. Conclusions Coexisting diabetes and smoking status increase the risk of rLDH and the patient’s outcome is favorable with pain-free after reoperation without the need for physiotherapy when the recurrence is on the same level and opposite side.

Combination of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy and platelet-rich plasma hydrogel injection for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation

ObjectiveTo determine the safety and efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) hydrogel injection in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH).MethodsA total of 98 consecutive patients with LDH who underwent either PELD combined with PRP hydrogel injection or PELD alone were reviewed. This retrospective study was performed between January 2019 and January 2021. Clinical outcomes were compared in the visual analog scale (VAS) for low back pain and leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, and Macnab criteria. Intervertebral disc height on MRI was measured, and the Pfirrmann grade classification was used pre-operatively and post-operatively.ResultsNo severe adverse events were reported during an 18-month follow-up period. VAS scores for back pain were decreased at 1 month, 3 months, and 18 months in the treatment group than that in the control group. JOA score and ODI in the treatment group at 3-month and 18-month follow-up was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The excellent and good rate of the Macnab criteria was 92.0% (46/50) in the treatment group and 89.6% (43/48) in the control group (P > 0.05). The comparison of Pfirrmann grading and disc height at 18-month follow-up showed significant difference in two groups (P < 0.05). The recurrence of LDH in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05).ConclusionsWe suggest that PELD combined with PRP hydrogel injection to treat patients with LDH is a safe and promising method. PRP injection was beneficial for disc remodelling after PELD.

Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation: Does Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Lead to Better Clinical and Radiological Outcomes than Redo-Discectomy?

randomized, prospective, and level I clinical study. To compare the clinical outcomes and radiological findings of revision discectomy alone versus revision discectomy with fusion as surgical treatment for recurrent lumbar disc herniation (RDH). RDH is a common complication following a primary discectomy. The optimal surgical procedure for RDH is still debated. Sixty patients with RDH were randomly divided into two equal groups: the first group underwent revision discectomy alone and the second underwent revision discectomy with fusion. The primary outcomes evaluated were Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for low back and limb pains, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), disc height indexes, foraminal height index, and disc height subsidence. Secondary outcomes included operative time, blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and complications. Revision discectomy with fusion showed superior pain relief and improved functional outcomes, including better VAS scores for both back and leg pain and ODI at 24-month follow-up. Additionally, it restored the stability of the spine better with lower disc height subsidence without significant complications. However, these advantages came at the cost of increased blood loss and longer operative time and hospital stays. Revision discectomy with fusion is recommended for RDH; however, the choice of the procedure should be made caseby- case basis, considering many factors related to the patient and surgical facilities.

Comparative analysis of percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy for highly downward-migrated disc herniation

ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy (PEID) for treating highly downward-migrated disc herniation.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study on 39 patients with highly downward-migrated disc herniation who underwent PEID treatment between January 2015 and October 2020. The clinical outcomes, including the preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) for the back and leg, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and MacNab criteria for surgical success, were evaluated and compared to thirty-seven patients treated with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF).ResultsThe mean operation time of PEID was 93.00(77.00,110.00) min, while that of PLIF was 169.00(157.00,183.00) min. Continued improvement in both PEID and PLIF was observed in the VAS and ODI scores immediately after the surgery to the last follow‐up. The VAS and ODI scores of PEID one week after surgery were significantly different from those of PLIF. One patient with recurrent lumbar disc herniation in the same segment improved after undergoing repeat PEID, two patients had dura tears, and conservative treatment helped relieve the symptoms. The overall percentage of patients with good to excellent results of PELD according to the modified MacNab criteria was 97.43%, while that of PLIF was 94.60%.ConclusionsPEID has reliable efficacy and safety for treating highly downward-migrated disc herniation. And the long-term efficacy of PEID is comparable to PLIF. No severe complications occurred after surgery, and most patients’ symptoms were relieved.