Minim Invasive Neurosurg 2003; 46(1): 1-4
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-37962
Original Article
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Endoscopic Surgery of the Lumbar Epidural Space (Epiduroscopy): Results of Therapeutic Intervention in 93 Patients

S.  Ruetten1 , O.  Meyer1 , G.  Godolias1
  • 1Ressort Spine Surgery and Pain Therapy, Orthopaedic Clinic at the Faculty of Radiology and Microtherapy, University of Witten/Herdecke, St. Anna-Hospital, Herne, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
17 March 2003 (online)

Abstract

Determination and therapy of the underlying pathology in chronic pain syndrome in the lumbar spine is frequently difficult. Minimally invasive and microsurgical techniques may offer advantages. Epiduroscopy is available for visualization of the lumbar epidural space. 93 patients with chronic back-leg pain syndrome were epiduroscopically operated. When findings were appropriate, mechanical instruments and the holmium:YAG laser were applied therapeutically. 45.9 % of these patients presented with positive results in postoperative examination. Pathomorphological processes corresponding to the multifactorial pain processes, which escape detection in modern imaging procedures, can be diagnosed in the epidural space using epiduroscopy Therapeutic intervention is basically possible. However, use is limited due to technical difficulties. Navigation of the endoscope is especially limited in access via the hiatus sacralis.

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Dr. med. S. Ruetten

Ressort Spine Surgery and Pain Therapy · Orthopaedic Clinicat the Faculty of Radiology and Microtherapy · University of Witten/Herdecke · St. Anna-Hospital

Hospitalstraße 19

44649 Herne

Germany

Phone: +49-2325-986-2022

Fax: +49-2325-986-2049

Email: s-ruetten@t-online.de