COMPARISON OF ENDOSCOPIC AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC HERNIATIONS IN THE LUMBAR SPINE

Introduction. Intervertebral disc herniations are a common condition that is often associated with painful sensations and restricted spinal mobility. Since this condition can significantly deteriorate a patient's quality of life, it is essential to seek effective and safe methods for its treatment. Therefore, evaluating the effectiveness and safety of treating patients with pain caused by intervertebral disc herniation, which includes performing surgical interventions for hernia removal using endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques, is a relevant task today. In this context, comparing endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical interventions becomes a pertinent topic for research, as it can help determine the optimal treatment method for each patient. The aim of the study is to compare endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures for intervertebral disc herniations in the lumbar spine. Materials and Methods. The study involved 100 patients diagnosed with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation. Of these, 50 patients underwent endoscopic surgery, while the remaining 50 underwent minimally invasive surgery. The effectiveness and safety of both methods were compared using several criteria, including the duration of surgery, blood loss, length of hospital stay, pain level, overall health status, the incidence of complications, and patient satisfaction with the procedure. Results. Compared to minimally invasive surgery, endoscopic surgery resulted in lower blood loss, shorter treatment duration, reduced pain levels, and fewer complications. All patients in both groups returned to normal activity according to their health status. Conclusions. Endoscopic surgery is more effective and safer compared to minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of herniated intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine. The endoscopic technique allows for better visualization and more precise manipulation in hernia removal, which positively affects treatment outcomes, reduces the risk of complications, shortens hospitalization, and leads to faster patient recovery. The results of this study can be valuable for physicians and patients when choosing the method of treatment for herniated intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine.