The microsurgical approach to extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations. An analysis of 15 cases

AIM: Extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations are uncommon, but thanks to recent progress in imaging procedures, they may be easily diagnosed. Several surgical approaches have been described and employed to remove these herniations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, radiological and surgical features which differentiate the treatment of this type of hernia from the more common surgical approaches to other types of lumbar disc hernias. METHODS: The authors report the results of the surgical treatment of 15 cases of extraforaminal lumbar disc herniation through an extracanalicular, intertransverse microsurgical approach and describe the technique employed. RESULTS: All cases experienced a prompt recovery from the preoperative symptoms with no complications, which notably reduced the time necessary for postoperative care. No instability was documented and none of the cases observed presented the neuropathic pain sometimes reported with this method of approach to these herniations. CONCLUSION: This particular site of disc herniation can be approached effectively through the extracanalicular route. The procedure, however, requires an extremely accurate preoperative anatomical evaluation and a good microsurgical experience.