Functional Outcomes After Discectomy for Recurrent Lumbar Herniation Using the Destandau Endospine System: A Retrospective Study of 44 Patients

Background Recurrent disc herniation is a major cause of morbidity and surgical failure after disc surgery. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of the Destandau endospine system (DES) for treating recurrent lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methodology A total of 44 patients who underwent minimally invasive Destandau endoscopic lumbar discectomy (DELD) for recurrent LDH were included in this study. All data were collected retrospectively. The preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score was used for the evaluation and gradation of pain. The clinical outcome was analyzed according to modified MacNab criteria. The minimum follow-up was two years. Preoperative and postoperative VAS scores were compared using the paired Student's t-test. Statistical significance was set at a p-value <0.05. Results The mean surgical time was 30 ± 20 minutes. The VAS score for leg pain was improved in all cases from 5.9 ± 2.1 to 1.7 ± 1.3 (p< 0.001). In 98% of cases, a successful outcome was noted (excellent or good outcome according to MacNab criteria). In three (7%) patients, incidental durotomy occurred, but there was no neurological worsening, cerebrospinal fluid fistula, or negative influence on the clinical outcome. No recurrence or instability occurred in our series. Conclusions The clinical outcomes of minimally invasive DES for LDH were found to be comparable with the reported success rates of other minimally invasive techniques reported in the existing literature. The dural tear rate was independent of postoperative morbidity and functional outcome. The technique is a safe and effective treatment option for recurrent LDH.