Percutaneous laser discectomy

Abstract

A variety of lasers have been employed to perform the percutaneous laser discectomy procedure, Including Nd:YAG and the KTP/532. They all can effect a tract through the annulus and nucleus that is believed to reduce disc pressure under load. Although success rates following laser discectomy range between 70% and 80%, criteria for selecting patients are very vague. Newer technology employing visualization within the disc vice fiberoptics is of questionable benefit.