Approaching Far Lateral Disc Herniations: The MIS Perspective

Lumbar disc disease is a common pathology seen by spine surgeons. Far lateral disc herniations represent a rare cause of lumbar disc compression syndromes. Patients often present with a severe pain, numbness, and sometimes weakness. Various conservative treatment modalities are available. As compared with traditional open techniques, minimally invasive approaches can better treat the pathology while minimizing collateral damage. This chapter reviews the presentation of far lateral disc herniations and emphasizes the surgical nuances to the minimally invasive approach.