A Prospective Study Of 240 Patients Examined The Functional Outcome Following Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy Using Destandau's Technique

Abstract

Introduction: Destandau's procedure is a well-known way of treating lumbar disc herniation; it was first developed in 1993 and is gaining popularity for its short skin incision, minimum tissue dissection, and great visualization.  To evaluate the functional outcome and complication rate in 240 patients in order to determine the effectiveness of the lumbar discectomy treatment using the Destandau Endospine System was the main objective.

Method: 240 of the 350 patients who had endoscopic lumbar discectomy (ELD) between August 2020 and November 2021 were chosen based on the tight inclusion criteria. The procedure involved identifying the level at which symptoms were present, localising it, and then performing a discectomy by inserting an endospine system device through a 10-15 mm skin and fascial incision. Using Macnab's criterion, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score after a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 12 months of follow-up, assessed the outcomes.

Result: 89 patients (78.00%) had outstanding results, 74 (17.8%) good results, 68 (3.08%) acceptable results, and 10 (0.96%) bad results according to the modified Macnab's criteria. In one year, the average VAS score decreased from 7.7 (range, 5-10; SD=0.8) to 3 (range, 1-6; SD=1.1) and the average ODI score went from 63 (range, 43-85; SD=9.1) to 13 (range, 2-30; SD=4.3). 195 individuals (95.8%) who underwent the surgery were pain-free and satisfied after a year of follow-up.

Conclusion: For lumbar discectomy, ELD offers a less invasive, safe, and effective access corridor. Additionally, the method enables earlier postoperative mobilization and a quicker return to work.