Arthroscopic microdiscectomy versus nucleotomy techniques.

Arthroscopic microdiscectomy represents an alternative method of treatment for herniated lumbar disc and its associated radiculopathy. In contrast to nucleotomy procedures that allow for only central evacuation of the nuclear mass, in arthroscopic microdiscectomy, the emphasis is placed on evacuation of the posterior collagenized fragments, which are responsible for mechanical compression of the nerve roots. Over a period of 10 years, 250 patients with unremitting sciatica due to herniated nucleus pulposus have been treated at the Graduate Hospital through a posterolateral approach via a 6.5-mm cannula. Our overall successful results have been 87.5%, and we have not encountered any neurovascular or other serious complications.