Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Discectomy For Massive Disc Herniation Causing Cauda Equina Syndrome: A Case Report

Traditional open and microscopic approaches for lumbar discectomy in cauda equina syndrome are associated with retraction of thecal sac and nerve root which was already compromised. Our study looks upon a case of cauda equina syndrome due to massive disc herniation which was operated by percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy (PETLD) using outside in technique. The procedure is done under local anesthesia with minimal soft tissue damage and allows early rehabilitation with the better aesthetic outcome. PETLD is a safe and effective alternative to emergently decompress the lumbar spine with prompt recovery.