Percutaneous Lumbar Disc Decompression with Nd YAG Laser

Abstract

Lumbar disc disease has been treated with percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD) since February 1994 in our clinic. Despite its safeness as a percutaneous method in treating disc diseases, the effectiveness and results of this method has been one of the most controversial subjects. 108 applications of PLDD in 102 cases were followed-up clinically and radiologically for a mean of 19.4 ± 0.7 months. Applications in regard to disc intervals were L<inf>3-4</inf> in 4, L<inf>4-5</inf> in 85 and L<inf>5</inf>-S<inf>1</inf> in 13 patients. Results were reported according to Mac Nab criterias. Results were perfect in 30 cases (%29.4), good in 28 cases (%27.4) and no change in 20 (%19.6) cases. Complains were increased in 24 (%23.5) cases. Open surgery was performed on 16 cases (%15.6) following PLDD. We concluded that PLDD is a practical procedure when applied with appropriate indications, has no significant complications and causes no obstacles open surgery.