[Evaluation of the impact of image guided and controlled percutaneous laser disc decompression by cross-sectional imaging and pathology ex vivo].

INTRODUCTION: Nearly 65-70% of the population over the age of 40 years may be affected by lumbar pain.

AIM: The aim of the author was to detect the impact of percutaneous laser disc decompression in intervertebral discs.

METHOD: For the model 27 ex vivo lumbar intervertebral discs were used. Constant laser light energy to the nucleus pulposus was delivered using diode laser. Computed tomography and fluoroscopy were performed to compare the accuracy of the procedure. For the detection of the physical effect of the laser procedure, magnetic resonance imaging was performed after the laser procedure. To demonstrate morphological tissue changes, histopathological studies were conducted.

RESULTS: 2 mm accuracy was reached by cross-sectional imaging aided surgical navigation. The radiation exposure time to the staff was reduced. Measurable tissue changes were detected and different physical effects were verified in the nucleus pulposus after the laser procedure magnetic resonance imaging.

CONCLUSIONS: The applied study is feasible for modeling percutaneous laser disk decompression PLDD with cross sectional imaging aided surgical navigation. The physical effect was detectable by magnetic resonance measurements which could be used to control in vivo human applications in the future.