A prospective analysis of efficacy of fenestration discectomy in patients with symptomatic lumbar disc prolapse

Abstract

Background: Aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of Fenestration Discectomy in symptomatic Lumbar Disc Prolapse in terms of pain relief, recovery of neurological deficit and assessing complication rates. Material and Method: 20 cases of symptomatic lumbar disc prolapse, not responding to conservative measures for 6 weeks were treated with fenestration discectomy and followed for a period of 2 and a half years from June 2014 to dec 2016. Result: Out of 20 cases, overall results include best result in 16, good in 2, fair in 1 and poor in 1.Spinal movements improved in 16 cases, worsened in 1 and remained same in 3 cases. SLR improved in 19 cases and remained same in 1 case. Out of 8 patients with neurological deficit, 6 recovered and 2 remained the same. Complications like dural tear occurred in 2 cases, EHL weakness occurred in 1 case and infection occurred in 1 case. Conclusion: 80 % of cases had best results, 10% had good results, 5% fair result and 5% poor result. Success of surgery depends on selection of patients, correct identification of level intra operatively and avoiding complications.