Classically, to treat a herniated disc, an open surgical procedure, known as laminectomy, was performed, but given that this technique caused many problems to some patients, percutaneous techniques began to appear (that is, through the skin, through a small hole). First, chemo-nucleolysis appeared, which consisted of injecting into the intervertebral disc that had the herniated disc a substance capable of destroying the disc tissue. This brought some problems since the extent of disc destruction could not be controlled exactly and was abandoned.
Open disc surgery
Then the open disc surgery technique with a microscope appeared, equal to the laminectomy but with a smaller wound, producing less instability and bone damage. However, open discectomy can still carry the risk of infection and scarring around nerves (Epidural fibrosis).
Percutaneous Discectomy
Subsequently, Percutaneous Discectomy or removal of the herniated disc through a small hole made in the skin where very fine instruments can be introduced without any damage to muscles and bone were introduced. This achieved removal of the damaged disc tissue without surrounding tissue damage and reducing intradiscal pressure, an essential element in the causation of disc herniation. This technique does not produce fibrosis, nor destabilize the spine avoiding the use of rods, screws, hospitalization (since it is outpatient) and is performed without general anaesthesia. In addition, its cost is infinitely lower than the other techniques.
The role of laser
At present, the treatment of herniated discs includes the use of “contact laser”. This technique can be summarized as follows: A cannula is inserted percutaneously, of less thickness than that of a spare plastic pen replacement, which includes a laser fiber, a television micro-camera, irrigation hoses and Aspiration, in addition to having a mechanism that allows mobilizing the tip of the laser fiber according to the requirements of the surgeon, thus allowing you to have very precise control over the instrument.
Once inside, the surgeon explores the affected disc through the video system, which gives a clear vision of exactly what the problem is. Applying the laser, the surgeon disintegrates the damaged parts of the affected intervertebral disc, thus reducing the disc pressure, providing immediate relief to the patient on the operating table.
Thanks to the irrigation system used in this type of system, it is further guaranteed that the laser beam will never affect areas beyond what is required by the surgeon because the liquid medium that is created inside the intervertebral disc keeps in a correct range the intradiscal temperature. This technique is known as laser discectomy.
At the London Spine Unit, we have some of the best specialists to perform laser discectomy. Book an appointment to get a checkup.
Other links :
What is an endoscopic discectomy?
Then the open disc surgery technique with a microscope appeared, equal to the laminectomy but with a smaller wound, producing less instability and bone damage. However, open discectomy can still carry the risk of infection and scarring around nerves (Epidural fibrosis). Subsequently, Percutaneous Discectomy or removal of the herniated disc through a small hole made in the skin where very fine instruments can be introduced without any damage to muscles and bone were introduced. This achieved removal of the damaged disc tissue without surrounding tissue damage and reducing intradiscal pressure, an essential element in the causation of disc herniation.What is open disc surgery?
What is percutaneous discectomy?