CT-guided Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD): Prospective Clinical Outcome

摘要

Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD) is a minimal invasive and effective treatment for contained lumbar disc hernias with correspondent radicular pain. This prospective study evaluates clinical efficacy of patients treated with PLDD under CT-fluoroscopic guidance. An independent observer assessed clinical outcome in a series of 40 consecutive patients at a mean follow-up of 7.5 months after treatment. According to Mac Nab criteria, 80% of patients experienced a good response to PLDD, 12.5% a fair response and 7.5% a poor response. 37 patients (92.5%) were back at work after 3 weeks. This technique could represent an alternative and secure treatment to conventional surgery for contained disc hernias.