Photomedicine and laser surgery
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Photomed Laser Surg · Jun 2006
Salvage operation for persistent low back pain and sciatica induced by percutaneous laser disc decompression performed at outside institution: correlation of magnetic resonance imaging and intraoperative and pathological findings.
We identified several problems associated with percutaneous lumbar disc decompression (PLDD) based on a study of patients who required salvage operations for complications after undergoing PLDD at an outside institution. ⋯ PLDD is associated with significant risk of disc, end-plate, and nerve root injuries, contrary to the general belief that the procedure is minimally invasive. Our findings highlight the need for careful diagnosis and sufficient technical skill when selecting PLDD as a treatment option.