Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy With Bone Drill-Assisted Foraminoplasty in Recurrent Disc Herniation

Transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy (TELD) is effective and feasible for recurrent disc herniation, and can reduce surgery-related complications and the operation time. After lumbar discectomy, the disc height significantly decreases, and disc degeneration and facet arthropathy might progress. These changes can make it difficult to achieve transforaminal endoscopic access to the epidural space, increasing the likelihood of exiting nerve injury. Endoscopic foraminoplasty facilitates the engagement of the working cannula via the intervertebral foramen, allowing cannula access near the herniated disc for the successful performance of TELD. We present a successful case of TELD using bone drill-assisted foraminoplasty for recurrent disc herniation to demonstrate this technique. This foraminoplasty technique is relatively safe and time-efficient, significantly aiding the TELD procedure.