Endoscopic transiliac approach to L5-S1 disc and foramen, technique and results

BACKGROUND: Transforaminal endoscopic discectomy has become popular due to its advantages over open discectomy. However, transforaminal endoscopic surgery may be difficult to perform at L5-S1 level in some cases due to anatomic variations such as high iliac crest. Endoscopic transiliac approach is an option for patients with high iliac crest or narrow foramen. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the technique, analyse the results and complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 10 patients with variety of L5-S1 disc pathology who were treated with endoscopic transiliac surgery under local anaesthesia from June 2015 to December 2016 were included in the study. Clinical follow up was done at one month, three months, six months, one year. Outcome was assessed using modified Macnab's criteria. RESULTS: All patients had immediate relief from symptoms. Excellent outcome was noted in eight patients, Good outcome in one patient, and fair result in one patient. No patient had any complications. No patient required conversion to open or alternative procedure. Mean hospital stay was 1 day. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic transiliac approach is safe and effective in lumbosacral disc pathologies. Transiliac approach removes the limitations of transforaminal approach for L5-S1 disc space. Transiliac approach is the only versatile minimally invasive approach to lumbosacral junction which can tackle variety of clinical conditions.