Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy (LED) is an outpatient surgical procedure to remove herniated disc material. An anesthesiologist provides intravenous sedation. The surgeon also uses local anesthesia. Through x-ray guidance and a video endoscope, a 3mm probe is inserted through the skin into the herniated disc. The hydrodiscectomy tool, suction and disc grasping instruments removes the herniated nucleus, resulting in pressure and pain relief on the nerve root. Only the herniated portion of the nucleus is removed (approximately 10 – 15 %), leaving the rest of the disc intact. The disc material is then pulverized by a powerful jet of salt water which allows it to be suctioned away. The disc protrusion is decompressed in a matter of minutes. The puncture in the skin is very small (4 mm) rather than a larger incision required for open surgery.
LED is different from open lumbar disc surgery because there is no large skin incision or damage to the back muscles. Most of the complications that may occur with open surgery are eliminated with the LED procedure.
Video: Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy Procedure
This procedure is specifically designed for patients with the disc problems accompanied by the following:
Pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, such as- bed rest, analgesics, chiropractic, physical therapy and/or muscle relaxants
Low back pain and severe leg pain, sciatica.
Multiple disc protrusions may be treated at the same surgery.
Herniated lumbar discs
Herniated lumbar discs (prolapsed, protruded, ruptured and extruded) confirmed by radiologic studies that may include one or more of the following:
The content on NJCSPM is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please call 732-719-8148 for an immediate consultation or 911 if it is an emergency.
