Long-Term Results of Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy by "Destandau's Technique"

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to present long-term results from a 10-year follow-up after endoscopic lumbar discectomy (ELD) by "Destandau's technique". OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Endoscopic disc surgery by Destandau's technique using ENDOSPINE Karl Storz system is a relatively new technique. It was introduced in 1993. It has been gaining popularity among the spine surgeons, as it is attractive for small skin incision and allows a gentle and excellent tissue dissection with excellent visualization. Many authors have published results of their own studies; however, in all these studies the long-term follow up of the patients has not been emphasized. METHODS: A total of 21 patients selected on basis of strict inclusion criteria's underwent ELD from November 2004 to March 2005. Surgery outcome was assessed by using "Prolo's Anatomic-Functional-Economic Rating System" (1986). Patients were followed up to 10 years. In addtion, we compared the results of our study with other studies. RESULTS: Outcomes were excellent in 17 patients (80.95%), good in 3 (14.28%) and fair in 1 (4.78%), with no patients having a poor result. In our study, 19 patients (90.47%) were able to resume their previous works/jobs, and only 2 (9.52%) needed to change their jobs for lighter work. No patient retired from his or her previous daily routine following the operation. CONCLUSIONS: The initial and long-term results are very good for endoscopic lumbar discectomy by Destandau's technique. In properly selected patients it is a safe and minimally invasive technique, and we recommend ELD in properly selected patients.