Abstract
The transforaminal spinal surgery technique is the most commonly
performed way of endoscopic discectomy. Initial placement of the working cannula
may determine the sequence of procedural steps. Commonly applied variations of the
technique include the “inside-out” and “outside-in” techniques. In this up-to-date
chapter, the authors describe the necessary procedure steps of the transforaminal
endoscopic discectomy procedure, focusing on downward migrated disc herniations as
these may push the endoscopic spine surgeon to the limits of his or her skill set.
Therefore, the authors describe the limitations of the technique and assess adequate
neural element decompression in great detail.
Keywords: Lumbar disc herniation, Transforaminal approach