Trans sacral Endoscopic Laser Decompression – A Case Report, Technical Note and Literature review

Abstract

Introduction: The concept of sacral epiduroscopic laser decompression (SELD) is based on the introduction of a steerable catheter in the sacral hiatus followed by the insertion of a fiberoptic laser system into the ventral side of the epidural disc space with an epiduroscope. This procedure enables the direct decompression of the ruptured annulus as the laser vaporizes the bulging disc in the herniated part, cauterization of the sinuvertebral nerve, adhesiolysis of structures nearby the nerve root, and irrigation of inflammation with saline and steroids. Case Report: A 44-year-old man presented to the outpatient department with a 12-month history of low back pain. His back pain had increased progressively. At the time of presentation, his back pain VAS score was 7/10 and his ODI score was 44. He had received non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for more than 6 months and an epidural injection elsewhere with minimal relief from symptoms. On physical examination, power in the lower limbs was 5/5 as per the MRC grading, and deep tendon reflexes were normal. Conclusion: The procedure is a useful technique in treating lumbar disc herniation with rapid pain relief and improvements in functional outcomes without any injury to paraspinal muscles or any resection of the ligaments and bony structures. SELD is safe, precise, and effective in the treatment of symptomatic lumbar lesions. Improvements in the optics and visuals with advancements in lasers’ ability to ablate tissue could be beneficial. Large, randomized, and multicenter trials are needed to further explore the potential of SELD. Keywords: Trans-sacral epiduroscopic decompression, Ho: YAG laser, lumbar back pain, minimally invasive, VAS score