Clinical features and radiographic analysis of recurrent lumbar disc herniation

Objective:To explore the characteristics of radiography and clinical features of recurrent lumbar disc herniation(LDH).Method:52 cases of recurrent LDH were reviewed retrospectively.The clinical manifestation and image data of X-rays including standing lumbar AP?lateral view and flexion-extension dynamic view,and lumbar MRI were analyzed.Result:There were 36 cases of recurrent LDH at the same level,6 cases at the adjacent level,10 cases at the same level combined with adjacent level.20 cases had lumbar instability and 2 cases showed spondylolisthesis.Segmental instability mainly occurred at L4/5 level,it correlated with surgical methods and extent of disc space narrowed.Conclusion:Recurrent LDH has particular characters like disc space narrowed and segmental instability.The reoperative treatment should deal with decompression and stability simultaneously.