Effectiveness of Bi-Needle Technique (Hybrid Yeung Endoscopic Spine System/ Transforaminal Endoscopic Spine System) for Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

OBJECTIVE: The hi-needle technique is a new technique for percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy. This technique combines the advantages of Yeung endoscopic spine system (YESS) and transforaminal endoscopic spine system (TESSYS) techniques. The aim of this study was to evaluate effectiveness of the bi-needle technique for percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy and compare it with the TESSYS technique. METHODS: We reviewed 86 patients with single-level lumbar disc herniation treated by percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy in our hospital from June 2013 to December 2015. Bi-needle technique was used in 49 patients (30 men, 19 women; average age 40.4 +/- 5.2 years). TESSYS technique was used in 37 patients (19 men, 18 women; average age 42.8 +/- 6.4 years). Clinical results were evaluated and compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Symptoms in both groups were significantly improved at the last follow-up (P < 0.01). There was no statistical difference in visual analog scale and lumbar Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores between bi-needle and TESSYS groups at last follow-up (P = 0.69 and P = 0.33, respectively). Operative time was shorter in the bi-needle group (P < 0.01). Recurrence rate and reoperation rate were lower in the bi-needle group (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03, respectively). Discitis was diagnosed in 2 patients in the TESSYS group. There were no patients with postoperative discitis in the bi-needle group. CONCLUSIONS: The bi-needle technique is safe and effective for treatment of lumbar disc herniation. Compared with TESSYS technique, operative time is shorter, and recurrence and reoperation rates are lower.