Endoscopic Interlaminar Discectomy Using Simple Technique Without the use of Complicated Industrial Tubular Systems

Abstract
Background: The fully endoscopic and microscopic dis-cectomy are the most widely used minimally invasive spine decompression techniques nowadays. All Different techniques have been described in the literature for the fully endoscopic lumbar discectomy using tubular systems were used with a limitation of work.
Objective: To assess our modified surgical technique of endoscopic interlaminar discectomy using simple port, custom made, and the ordinary sinoscope without the use of compli-cated industrial tubular systems.
Study Design: This study is a retrospective clinical study included fifteen patients with unilateral radiculopathy due to L4-5, L5-S 1 disc herniation and unilateral lateral recess stenosis, underwent endoscopic decompression surgery using our technique in the period from May 2013 to September 2015 at Neurosurgery Department, Benha University Hospital. The mean period of follow-up was 25.05±3.79 months.
Methods: Analysis was performed with the use of pain intensity and functional outcome assessment scales before and after surgery. Complications and radiographic findings were analyzed.
Results: Fifteen patients were studied, nine males (60%) and six females (40%) with mean age 45.5±8.66 (ranging from 21-65 years). Leg pain was reduced from an average NRS of 8.5 preoperatively to 1, 0.5, and 0.3 at 1, 2 and 4 weeks post operatively. Pre operative low back pain improved from an average NRS of 7.6 to 2, 1 and 0.5 at 1, 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively The average QDS reduced from 58 to 35, 20 and 16 at 1, 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively.
Conclusion: The endoscopic interlaminar discectomy is an efficient surgical technique for management of unilateral radiculopathy caused by lumber disc herniation and lateral recess stenosis using simple tools without the need for highly expensive endoscopic spine tubular systems offered by the spine companies.