Initial experience of 3-dimensional exoscope in decompression of massive lumbar disc herniation

To investigate the effect of a three-dimensional (3D) exoscope for decompression of single-segment massive lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

The study included 56 consecutive patients with single segment massive LDH who underwent decompression assisted by a 3D exoscope from October 2019 to October 2022 at a university hospital. The analysis was based on comparison of perioperative metrics including decompression time, estimated blood loss (EBL) during decompression and postoperative length of stay (PLS); clinical outcomes including assessment using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Oswestry disability index (ODI); and incidence of reoperation and complications.

The mean decompression time was 28.35 ± 8.93 min (lumbar interbody fusion (LIF)) and 15.50 ± 5.84 min (fenestration discectomy (LOVE surgery)), the mean EBL during decompression was 42.65 ± 12.42 ml (LIF) and 24.32 ± 8.61 ml (LOVE surgery), and the mean PLS was 4.56 ± 0.82 days (LIF) and 2.00 ± 0.65 days (LOVE surgery). There were no complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage, nerve root injury and epidural hematoma. All patients who underwent decompression assisted by a 3D exoscope were followed up for 6 months. At the last follow-up, the VAS and ODI scores were significantly improved from the preoperative period to the last follow-up (P < 0.05).

A 3D exoscope provides a visually detailed, deep and clear surgical field, which makes decompression safer and more effective and reduces short-term complications. A 3D exoscope may be a good assistance tool during decompression for single-segment massive LDH.