Observations on the Outcome of Lumbar Microdiscectomy

Abstract

Objective:  A retrospective observational study of seven cases aimed to find out the outcomes of Lumbar Microdiscectomy as an excellent choice to treat Lumbar Disc Disease causing Neurologic symptoms of pain, numbness, and/or weakness.

Materials & Methods:  Cases were included who underwent Lumbar Microdiscectomy at the Department of Neurosurgery, Ali Fatima Hospital/Abu Umara Medical and Dental College, Green International University, Lahore. MRI of the lumbosacral spine was done in all patients.  Lumbar Microdiscectomy was done in all cases at the affected level. Post-operatively, all patients were mobilized in bed on the same day, and out-of-bed mobilization was done the next morning after surgery (1^st post-operative day). The results were analyzed using the modified McNab Criteria.

Results:  Four (57.1%) patients were male, and 3 (42.9%) were female. The age range was 26 years to 48 years, with a mean age of 40 years. Five (71.4%) patients showed excellent recovery with no post-operative complications. One (14.3%) patient developed post-operative wound infection that was treated with wound debridement and antibiotics and recovered. One (14.3%) patient developed recurrence and was re-operated 5 months after the first surgery. After revision surgery, the patient recovered completely.

Conclusion:  Lumbar Microdiscectomy is an excellent procedure for the management of Lumbar Disc Disease resulting in Neurologic symptoms of pain, numbness, and weakness. The outcome depends upon appropriate diagnosis and timely surgical intervention.