Pros & cons

The skin is sterilized around the area of the back to be operated

Surgical risks of PTED. The risk of complications with this procedure is extremely small. But just as with every operation, this procedure also has its risks. Sometimes the symptoms of loss of function (paralysis, numbness) and pain are not immediately relieved. This is usually due to a nerve root that has been pinched for a prolonged period. These effects are usually temporary. Inflammation of the wound or the intervertebral space is seldom seen. Likewise, post-operative bleeding is very rare. There is an extremely minor risk of penetration of the dural sac (the membrane surrounding the spinal cord) during surgical manoeuvres. This may cause leakage of spinal fluid. The patient must then be confined to bed for 5 to 7 days so that the hole can repair itself. After 5 to 7 days, the patient can start to mobilize. The chance of a new hernia arising at the same intervertebral space (disc) is around 6 %. This percentage is no different to that of the more common operations.

Typical endoscopy video

The most important benefits of the therapy:

• You can quickly be operated; there is no waiting list.
• The operation is over quickly.
• There is a tiny surgical wound (8 mm) which leaves only a minimal scar, or none at all. It is therefore also suitable for e.g. heart patents and diabetics.
• The procedure takes place under local anaesthetic.
• In general, you can expect to move around without pain in the legs within two hours after surgery.
• You can go home just a few hours after the operation.
• Recovery is relatively quick.
• The procedure can also be applied to heavy patients (up to 135 kg).
• This therapy is especially suitable for patients who have previously been operated on for a hernia, but the symptoms have returned.
• There are few complications.
• There is no waiting period. You can be operated within a week after the first consultation.

Disadvantages of the procedure:

• Some patients are less comfortable with the idea of only a local anaesthetic. It is necessary for the patient to alert the surgeon when he gets too close to a nerve.
• The required instruments are expensive.
• Not all medical insurers will approve payment for the therapy.

If the hernia has to be removed, there are also other techniques. Your family doctor will be pleased to help you weigh up the pros and cons of the various therapies, so you can make an informed decision.