Full-Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy for Lumbar Disc Herniation with Posterior Ring Apophysis Fracture: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE: The present retrospective study evaluated the clinical results of full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy (FELD) for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) with lumbar posterior ring apophysis fracture (PRAF) using an interlaminar or a transforaminal approach at an inpatient surgery center. METHODS: Patients with single-level LDH with type III PRAF who had undergone FELD using an interlaminar or a transforaminal approach from January 2010 to December 2015 were enrolled. The general data recorded included sex, age, location, surgical approach, operative time, hospital stay, perioperative complications, and recurrence. The presence of mobile and immobile fragments was documented. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using a visual analog scale for low back and leg pain. The Oswestry Disability Index was used for the functional assessment and the modified MacNab criteria for patient satisfaction. RESULTS: FELD was performed successfully in all cases and no serious perioperative complications were observed. A mobile fragment of PRAS was present in 18 patients and an immobile fragment in 15 patients. Complications occurred in 2 of the 33 included patients; 1 dual tear (3.0%) and 1 transient dysesthesia (3.0%) that did not require further treatment. Recurrence developed in 1 patient (3.0%) and required reoperation. The visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores had significantly improved postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months and the final follow-up visit (P < 0.05). Using the modified MacNab criteria, an excellent or good rate of 93.4% was achieved. CONCLUSIONS: FELD is a safe and effective minimally invasive approach for the treatment of LDH with type III PRAF. Sufficient preparation and experience are required to achieve satisfactory results.