Percutaneous endoscopic laser lumbar discectomy
Summary
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on percutaneous endoscopic laser thoracic discectomy in June 2004. It was considered for review as part of the Institute's work programme. Although it did not meet the criteria to be re-assessed, percutaneous endoscopic laser cervical discectomy and percutaneous endoscopic laser lumbar discectomy were identified for consideration.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on percutaneous endoscopic laser lumbar discectomy.
Description
Symptomatic lumbar disc herniation is when one of the discs in the bottom of the back which act as cushions between the bones bursts and pushes against the spinal cord or nerve roots that run through the backbone, causing: pain in the neck or back, weakness and numbness in the arms or legs, or bladder problems.
The aim of a percutaneous endoscopic laser discectomy is to remove the part of the disc that is pushing against the spinal cord or nerve root. A small cut is made in the skin and special equipment including a laser is used to heat and destroy some of the disc and remove the part that is sticking out to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root.
OPCS4.6 Code(s):
Details
Surgical procedures
- British Orthopaedic association
- Society of British Neurological Surgeons
Contact details:
Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA
Links:
This page was last updated: 28 February 2011
