Inter-laminar micro-endoscopic discectomy versus microdiscectomy in single-level posterolateral lumbar disc herniation: A comparative study

MED and MD showed equivalent efficacy in treating radicular pain caused by lumbar disc herniation. Patients in both groups showed significant improvements in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores. No significant differences were found between the groups in VAS, ODI, or complication rates, validating both surgical techniques for lumbar disc herniation. Compared with OD, MED showed reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and longer operation times. Although MED requires a steep learning curve, it remains safe even during the initial learning period, with outcomes and complication rates similar to those of MD.