Incidence of recurrent lumbar disc herniation: A narrative review

BACKGROUND: Recurrent disc herniation is a common condition that often results in months of disabling symptoms and additional costs. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence of recurrent disc herniation in patients treated surgically. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical trials and prospective studies involving patients treated with different techniques, such as open, percutaneous, or microendoscopic discectomy, were included. The incidence of recurrence as well as the level and the time until the recurrent disc herniation was collected. RESULTS: Thirteen studies were included. Recurrence of disc herniation ranged from 0% to 14% of patients. Most recurrences occurred at the same level of herniation and on the same side. The time to recurrence of disc herniation ranged from 1 to 5 years. CONCLUSION: This study answers the question of how much, when, and where in lumbar recurrent disc herniation.