Microendoscopic discectomy vs. Open Discectomy

Whereas endoscopic techniques used in other areas of body have become commonplace, spinal endoscopic techniques have developed more slowly because of complex anatomy and difficult access. With endoscopy came the ability to observe the disc space pathology, monitor removal of nucleus pulposus and control adjuvants such as laser and radio frequency. Nevertheless a number of problems arose including the need for expensive, nondisposable endoscopes and lack of size standardization. The development of minimally invasive technique for the decompression of symptoms producing herniated lumbar discs represent an attempt to improve operative technique & efficacy, reduce postoperative morbidity, decrease the incidence of perineural and intraneural fibrosis, preserve the epidural venous system and minimize the development of instability and spondyloarthropathy. Although the popularity of above methods has waxed and waned over the years, the purpose of present study is to compare the clinical as well as functional outcome of Micro-endoscopic discectomy (MED) to open (fenestration) discectomy.