Unilateral surgical approach for lumbar disc herniation with contralateral symptoms

Object In most cases of lumbar disc herniation, the primary problem is usually limited to radicular pain due to nerve compression on the herniated side, which is generally limited to the side of operation. The aim of this study was to reevaluate the side of the surgical approach in a selected group of patients with leg pain and contralateral lumbar disc herniation. Methods Included in this study were a total of 5 patients with lumbar disc herniations who presented with contralateral symptoms and neurological signs. In all cases, patients underwent a microdiscectomy from the side ipsilateral to the herniated lumbar disc, the side contralateral to the motor deficits and leg pain. Results The symptoms and signs, to some extent, resolved during the immediate postoperative period. There were no postoperative complications. Conclusions The findings confirm that performing a laminotomy via the side of the herniation is sufficient for this group of patients.