The Early Clinical Outcomes of a Percutaneous Full-Endoscopic Interlaminar Approach via a Surrounding Nerve Root Discectomy Operative Route for the Treatment of Ventral-Type Lumbar Disc Herniation

The objective of this study is to introduce a method using a percutaneous full-endoscopic interlaminar approach via a surrounding nerve root discectomy (SNRD) operative route that involves removing the protrusive disc via both the shoulder and the axilla of the corresponding nerve root for the treatment of ventral-type lumbar disc herniation (VLDH) and its early clinical symptoms. Twenty-two patients with VLDH satisfied the inclusion criteria and underwent the full-endoscopic interlaminar approach operation via a SNRD successfully during the period from November 2014 to June 2016. All operations were completed without conversion to other surgical techniques. The average operation time was 78.64 ± 25.97 min (50–145 min). The average removed disc tissue volume was 2.87 ± 0.48 ml (2–3.6 ml). No nerve root injury, infection, or other complications occurred. The postoperative ODI and VAS values of low back and sciatic pain were significantly decreased at each time point compared to preoperative measurements P<0.05. The MacNab scores at the 12-month follow-up included 15 excellent and 7 good scores. In summary, a percutaneous full-endoscopic interlaminar approach through SNRD is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with VLDH.