Minimally invasive endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy, a simplified technique guide

Abstract

Disc degeneration is a common problem affecting many middleaged individuals that increases in severity with age. Lack of exercise, bad postural habits, obesity and repetitive trauma may accelerate the process and can lead to early onset of symptoms. Depending on the number of spinal segments involved and the degree of degeneration, symptoms can range from mild muscular aches to severe neural compression that can compromise movement and sensation severely up to a point of disability. Treatment usually follows a hierarchy of steps or algorithm ranging from rest and medical treatment to extensive major surgery. Due to the nature of conventional spine surgery, large incisions and extensive deep tissue dissection are mandatory to gain access to the site of pathology.