The study compares outcomes of three surgical techniques for recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH): repeat microdiscectomy (MD), discectomy with fusion (MD + TLIF), and endoscopic discectomy (TFED).
A classification system for rLDH is outlined based on patient characteristics such as facet resection and segmental instability, with TFED showing the lowest recurrence rates and best overall outcomes.
The findings suggest that in young patients without segmental instability, TFED is the preferred option due to its effectiveness and safety profile.