A neurosurgical perspective on PLDD.
This paper discusses the evolution of PLDD and its risks and complications, and points out some advantages and disadvantages. It presents data from a clinical study of 81 patients in which three technologies--automated percutaneous discectomy, KTP, and Nd:YAG laser instruments--were used. The study concludes that PLDD is safe and cost-effective. If the patients are properly chosen PLDD can be a good choice for treatment of herniated lumbar discs.
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Weiss Institute of Neurological Sciences, Community Medical Center, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503, USA.
D017587:Diskectomy, Percutaneous / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000601:surgery*; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D018579:Patient Selection