Laser Nucleotomy: an experimental evaluation of its efficacy for disc herniation

Abstract

Since 1978, chemonucleolysis and percutaneous discectomy have been employed for treating dise herniation, with their efficacy recognized for some types of herniation.
Recently, a new method of intradiscal vaporization using laser irradiation has been developed. We report our investigation into the experimental efficacy of this new method, particularly with respect to its effect on intradiscal pressure.
We measured the effects both radiographically and histologically on intradiscal ablation in rabbits, and obtained successful ablation of the nucleus pulposus with a decrease in the intradiscal pressure.
However, excess laser irradiation also caused ablation in the annulus, with carbonization, but with no adverse effects seen on the disc periphery or canal.