Understanding Percutaneous Laser Therapy for Lumbar Disc Herniation
Percutaneous laser therapy offers a minimally invasive solution for lumbar disc herniation, proven effective through various clinical studies. Developed in the 1980s, this technique has gained global acceptance, providing patients with promising outcomes and quicker recovery times. Suitable for specific cases, it has become a preferred alternative to traditional open surgery due to its safety and efficiency.
Lumbar spinal stenosis results from congenital defects, degenerative changes, trauma, surgeries, or infections, affecting areas such as the foramina, lateral recess, and central canal. Treatment options are crucial to manage symptoms effectively. The evolution of minimally invasive procedures, including laser therapy, offers promising results for disc herniations, especially contained types, where open surgery may not be ideal. The concept of using lasers for lumbar disc treatment emerged in the 1980s, with formal approval by the FDA in 1991. Since then, many clinics worldwide have adopted this technique, demonstrating encouraging clinical outcomes.
Historically, disc herniations are classified as contained or non-contained. Traditional open discectomy often yielded less favorable outcomes for contained herniations, prompting the development of less invasive methods like percutaneous laser decompression. In 1986, Choy and colleagues performed the first such procedure, leading to broader adoption. Several studies have shown significant pain relief and functional improvement with laser decompression, with success rates exceeding 80% in well-selected patients. Overall, laser therapy represents a valuable minimally invasive option for lumbar disc herniation treatment.
