How to prevent and manage the surgical complications of lumbar disc herniation by small incision fenestration

Objective Discussing how to prevent and manage the surgical complications of Lumbar Disc Herniation(LDH) by small incision fenestration.Methods The technique of small incison fenestration were applied in the operation of 1685 cases of LDH from 2006 to 2011.Results Operative incisions of all these cases were primary healing,no complications of lumbar instability,nerve root injury,incision infection,and epidural hematoma.But 3 cases with cerebrospinal fluid leakage,1 case with scalpel breakage,and 2 cases with lumbar discitis.All patients were followed up for six months to 5 years(average 3.5 years).According to Nakai criteria,the outcomes were excellent in 1157 cases,good in 496,fair in 32,and excellent and good rate were 98.1%.Conclusion The technique of small incision fenestration applied in the operation of LDH,has the advantage of minimal damage to spinal structrure,small invasive,early postoperative exercise,high safety.And it can effectively prevent complications of lumbar instability,nerve root injury,lumbar discitis.