From the Research
Treatment Options for Far Lateral Herniation of the L5-S1 Intervertebral Disc
- The most effective treatment for far lateral herniation of the L5-S1 intervertebral disc is a topic of ongoing research, with various studies investigating different surgical approaches 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- A minimally invasive transmuscular approach (MIIMA) has been shown to be effective in treating far lateral L5-S1 disc herniations, with satisfactory results demonstrated in 13 out of 14 patients (92.9%) 1.
- The transpars approach has also been found to be feasible, safe, and effective for L5-S1 foraminal and extraforaminal disc herniation, with excellent or good outcomes achieved in 12 out of 14 patients (85.7%) 2.
- Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) using the foraminal retreat technique has been shown to be an effective treatment method for patients with foraminal and extraforaminal disc herniations at the L5-S1 level, with overall excellent or good outcomes obtained in 18 out of 22 patients (81.8%) 3.
- Far lateral microdiscectomy, a minimally-invasive surgical technique, has been found to offer the prospect of better long-term results than other surgical techniques due to less extensive muscle dissection and preservation of the integrity of the facet joint 4.
- A minimally invasive approach for far lateral disc herniations has been shown to be effective in a series of 20 patients, with the use of minimally invasive retractor systems decreasing tissue dissection and blood loss and improving postoperative recovery 5.
Key Considerations
- The choice of surgical approach depends on various factors, including the patient's anatomy, the location and size of the herniation, and the surgeon's experience and preference 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Preservation of the facet joint and prevention of postoperative instability are important considerations in the treatment of far lateral L5-S1 disc herniations 1, 4.
- The use of minimally invasive techniques and approaches can help reduce tissue dissection, blood loss, and postoperative recovery time 1, 2, 4, 5.