title: The problem of the L5-S1 disc solved by needle entry with an extrathecal approach.
abstract: The author describes a posterior, extrathecal approach to the L5-S1 disc for percutaneous laser disc decompression that is safe, simple, and without neurologic sequelae. The conclusion is that the extrathecal approach is safe and preferable to repeated unsuccessful attempts to enter the L5-S1 disc with a curved needle.
authors.affiliation: St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, New York 10021, USA.
authors.forename: D S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Choy
mesh_terms: D017587:Diskectomy, Percutaneous / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D009339:Needles; D011859:Radiography; D012447:Sacrum