Analysis of Patients Operated For Lumber Disc Herniation

Objectives:  To analyze different variables of patients operated for lumber disc prolapsed. Study Design:  Observational study. Sample Size:  Three hundred and twelve consecutive patients operated for lumber disc herniation. Settings:  Department of Neurosurgery, Postgraduate Medical Institute, Govt Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Pakistan. Duration:  The study duration was nine months from January 2008 to sept; 2008. Results:  Out of 312 patients 208 were male and 104 female with male to female ratio of 2:1. Their ages ranged from 17 to 70 years. Majority (56.1%) of patients were from northern areas. Straight leg raising test was impaired in 295 cases. The ratio between contained and ruptured disc was 3:1. About 44.9% of patients (140 cases) had left side disc prolapse, while right side in 29.5% and bilateral in 25.6% cases. The common level affected was L4-L5. In 225{72.1%} patients modified fenestration Discectomy was suitable and in the rest Laminectomy was carried out.  Conclusion:  From this study we conclude that Lumber disc herniation is common in male gender in 4th decade of their life, which occur commonly due to misuse of back. It usually occurs in Labourers and drivers. Left side and L4-5 level is involved in majority of patients. Sciatica with backache, and impaired straight leg raising test are important clinical features. Contained disc is more common than ruptured disc. Minimal invasive procedures like modified fenestration Discectomy gives good results.&nbsp