This work was supported by the Nanshan District Health Science and Technology Project (Grant No. NS2023002; NS2023044), the Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province of China (Grant No. A2023195), the Nanshan District Health Science and Technology Major Project (Grant No. NSZD2023023; NSZD2023026), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 82102640), and the National Key Research and Development Program of China (Grant No. 2022YFC3602203).

The protocol adheres to the regulations stipulated by the ethical committee of Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, which has granted approval for the protocol. The written informed consent from the patient was obtained. A 31-year-old female patient was enrolled, who had suffered from consistent left leg radiating pain with a visual analogue scale (VAS)7 equal to 8. Physical examination findings were as follows: (1) upper body side bending to the right; (2) restricted range of motion in leaning forward and back; (3) positive left straight leg raising test and Braggard test; (4) left tibialis anterior strength grade 4; (5) numbness in the lateral area of the left lower leg and dorsum of the left foot. A positive lumbar 4-5 disc herniation (left paramedian type) was confirmed with MRI. She had experienced ineffective outpatient conservative therapy, including rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (celecoxib 200 mg/day for 6 weeks), and acupuncture for two months. The surgical tools and equipment used in the study are listed in the Table of Materials.
1. Decompression under endoscope
<ol>
	<li>Position and anesthesia
	<ol>
		<li>Perform endoscopic lumbar discectomy through a transforaminal approach8. Place the patient in a prone position and mark the skin puncture point under fluoroscopic guidance. Inject 0.5% lidocaine (10 mL) into the puncture point after local disinfection and draping.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Puncture and cannula placement
	<ol>
		<li>Puncture using an 18 G needle at the marked puncture point and adjust the position under fluoroscopy. Step by step, insert the dilatation cannula (3.7 mm in diameter) and confirm reaching an ideal position under fluoroscopy.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Endoscopic lumbar decompression
	<ol>
		<li>Insert trephine saws of different sizes (5 mm, 8 mm, and 10 mm in diameter) and rotate to remove bone on the cranial, dorsal, and caudal aspects of the superior articular process of L5 to perform foraminoplasty9.</li>
		<li>Expose step by step and remove soft tissues. Visualize around the suspected area of the herniated disc (a hilly-like shape, usually significantly different from the surrounding flat area). Determine the targeted herniated disc and the compressed nerve root10.</li>
		<li>Identify and remove the herniated and loose disc (including AF, NP, and cartilage endplate). Examine the decompressed nerve root and confirm no residual discs are present. 
		NOTE: To identify the targeted herniation, our experience is to assess the color, texture, and shape of the disc material. Ruptured or herniated discs may appear discolored, fragmented, or displaced compared to the surrounding normal tissue. To examine the condition of the decompressed nerve root, allow the patient to cough and observe the &#34;pulsation&#34; state of the decompressed nerve root11.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
2. PLL-AF suture technique
<ol>
	<li>Penetration of the lateral AF tear
	<ol>
		<li>Use a disposable annular stapler for endoscopic suture12. Identify the AF tear and penetrate the first stitch (silk made, 0.4 mm in diameter) using a curve-shaped needle in the annular stapler into the intact lateral AF tissue (Figure 1A). Check and confirm that the stitch is anchored securely (Figure 1B).</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>PLL suturing
	<ol>
		<li>Penetrate the second stitch (silk made, 0.4 mm in diameter) into the PLL and confirm it penetrates also through the below medial intact AF. Check and confirm that the stitch is anchored securely. Then, tighten the first and the second stitches with a square knot (Figure 1C). 
		NOTE: Identifying the PLL after decompression can be challenging at times. Careful operation and determination of the medial and dorsal regions of the spinal canal are suggested.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>The third strengthen stitch
	<ol>
		<li>Cut the first stitch (Figure 1D) and penetrate the third stitch (silk made, 0.4 mm in diameter) at the lateral area of the intact AF and at the cranial position of the second stitch (Figure 1E).</li>
		<li>Check and confirm that the stitch is anchored securely. Cut both two stitches after making a square knot (Figure 1F). Check the nerve root again and make sure no compression exists.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
3. Postoperative management
<ol>
	<li>Administer 50 mg of flurbiprofen axetil intravenously for postoperative pain.</li>
	<li>After surgery, permit the patient to leave the bed one day postoperatively, provided no special conditions or complications arise, and provide a lumbar brace13 (semi-rigid type with metal or plastic struts for support).</li>
</ol>

Novel PLL-AF Suture Technique for Annulus Fibrosus Repair in Lumbar Endoscopy

<ol>
	<li>Fan, G., Wang, C., Gu, X., Zhang, H., He, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Trajectory+planning+and+guided+punctures+with+isocentric+navigation+in+posterolateral+endoscopic+lumbar+discectomy.">Trajectory planning and guided punctures with isocentric navigation in posterolateral endoscopic lumbar discectomy.</a> World Neurosurg. 103, 899-905 (2017).</li><li>Li, X., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+endoscopic+lumbar+discectomy+for+recurrent+lumbar+disc+herniation.">Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy for recurrent lumbar disc herniation.</a> Int J Surg. 27, 8-16 (2016).</li><li>Hu, Z., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Significance+of+preoperative+planning+software+for+puncture+and+channel+establishment+in+percutaneous+endoscopic+lumbar+discectomy:+A+study+of+40+cases.">Significance of preoperative planning software for puncture and channel establishment in percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy: A study of 40 cases.</a> Int J Surg. 41, 97-103 (2017).</li><li>Li, Z. Z., Cao, Z., Zhao, H. L., Shang, W. L., Hou, S. X. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+pilot+study+of+full-endoscopic+annulus+fibrosus+suture+following+lumbar+discectomy:+Technique+notes+and+one-year+follow-up.">A pilot study of full-endoscopic annulus fibrosus suture following lumbar discectomy: Technique notes and one-year follow-up.</a> Pain Physician. 23 (5), E497-E506 (2020).</li><li>Bron, J. L., Helder, M. N., Meisel, H. J., Van Royen, B. J., Smit, T. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Repair,+regenerative+and+supportive+therapies+of+the+annulus+fibrosus:+Achievements+and+challenges.">Repair, regenerative and supportive therapies of the annulus fibrosus: Achievements and challenges.</a> Eur Spine J. 18 (3), 301-313 (2009).</li><li>Wang, Z., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+retrospective+study+of+the+mid-term+efficacy+of+full-endoscopic+annulus+fibrosus+suture+following+lumbar+discectomy.">A retrospective study of the mid-term efficacy of full-endoscopic annulus fibrosus suture following lumbar discectomy.</a> Front Surg. 9, 1011746 (2022).</li><li>Bird, S. B., Dickson, E. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Clinically+significant+changes+in+pain+along+the+visual+analog+scale.">Clinically significant changes in pain along the visual analog scale.</a> Ann Emerg Med. 38 (6), 639-643 (2001).</li><li>Chen, Z., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+transforaminal+endoscopic+discectomy+versus+microendoscopic+discectomy+for+lumbar+disc+herniation:+Two-year+results+of+a+randomized+controlled+trial.">Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy versus microendoscopic discectomy for lumbar disc herniation: Two-year results of a randomized controlled trial.</a> Spine (Phila Pa). 45 (8), 493-503 (2020).</li><li>Sairyo, K., Chikawa, T., Nagamachi, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=State-of-the-art+transforaminal+percutaneous+endoscopic+lumbar+surgery+under+local+anesthesia:+Discectomy,+foraminoplasty,+and+ventral+facetectomy).">State-of-the-art transforaminal percutaneous endoscopic lumbar surgery under local anesthesia: Discectomy, foraminoplasty, and ventral facetectomy).</a> J Orthop Sci. 23 (2), 229-236 (2018).</li><li>Hoogland, T., Van Den Brekel-Dijkstra, K., Schubert, M., Miklitz, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Endoscopic+transforaminal+discectomy+for+recurrent+lumbar+disc+herniation:+A+prospective,+cohort+evaluation+of+262+consecutive+cases.">Endoscopic transforaminal discectomy for recurrent lumbar disc herniation: A prospective, cohort evaluation of 262 consecutive cases.</a> Spine (Phila Pa). 33 (9), 973-978 (2008).</li><li>Kim, J. E., Kim, K. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Piriformis+syndrome+after+percutaneous+endoscopic+lumbar+discectomy+via+the+posterolateral+approach.">Piriformis syndrome after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy via the posterolateral approach.</a> Eur Spine J. 20 (10), 1663-1668 (2011).</li><li>Li, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+novel+full+endoscopic+annular+repair+technique+combined+with+autologous+conditioned+plasma+intradiscal+injection:+A+new+safe+serial+therapeutic+model+for+the+treatment+of+lumbar+disc+herniation.">A novel full endoscopic annular repair technique combined with autologous conditioned plasma intradiscal injection: A new safe serial therapeutic model for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation.</a> Ann Palliat Med. 10 (1), 292-301 (2021).</li><li>Landauer, F., Trieb, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=An+indication-based+concept+for+stepwise+spinal+orthosis+in+low+back+pain+according+to+the+current+literature.">An indication-based concept for stepwise spinal orthosis in low back pain according to the current literature.</a> J Clin Med. 11 (3), 510 (2022).</li><li>Svensson-Raskh, A., Schandl, A., Holdar, U., Fagevik Ols&#233;n, M., Nygren-Bonnier, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=34;I+have+everything+to+win+and+nothing+to+lose&amp;#34;:+Patient+experiences+of+mobilization+out+of+bed+immediately+after+abdominal+surgery.">34;I have everything to win and nothing to lose&amp;#34;: Patient experiences of mobilization out of bed immediately after abdominal surgery.</a> Phys Ther. 100 (12), 2079-2089 (2020).</li><li>Choy, W. J., Phan, K., Diwan, A. D., Ong, C. S., Mobbs, R. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Annular+closure+device+for+disc+herniation:+Meta-analysis+of+clinical+outcome+and+complications.">Annular closure device for disc herniation: Meta-analysis of clinical outcome and complications.</a> BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 19 (1), 290 (2018).</li><li>Wang, Y., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Annulus+fibrosus+repair+for+lumbar+disc+herniation:+A+meta-analysis+of+clinical+outcomes+from+controlled+studies.">Annulus fibrosus repair for lumbar disc herniation: A meta-analysis of clinical outcomes from controlled studies.</a> Global Spine J. 14 (1), 306-321 (2024).</li><li>Ren, C., Qin, R., Li, Y., Wang, P. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Microendoscopic+discectomy+combined+with+annular+suture+versus+percutaneous+transforaminal+endoscopic+discectomy+for+lumbar+disc+herniation:+A+prospective+observational+study.">Microendoscopic discectomy combined with annular suture versus percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy for lumbar disc herniation: A prospective observational study.</a> Pain Physician. 23 (6), E713-E721 (2020).</li></ol>

The authors in this study declare that no conflict of interest exists.

Achieving excellent AF suturing under the endoscope has significant benefits. It is expected to reduce the nerve mechanical stimulation caused by AF rupture or bulge, thereby decreasing postoperative residual discogenic low back pain and/or sciatica pain4,12. Closing the annular tear portal can reduce nerve root irritation caused by the release of inflammatory mediators from the intervertebral disc5. Additionally, patients can feel more confident mobilizing early after surgery. This confidence contributes to an accelerated recovery process and better outcomes in terms of regaining strength and function14.
This study introduces a novel AF suturing technique that uses the PLL as the suturing material for the first time, providing a new approach to address the inadequate tension resulting from the traditional single-stitch suturing method and the lack of healthy or firm AF tissue available around the tear after decompression. Moreover, the PLL was tightly sewn above the AF tear, allowing for an increased lumbar canal volume at the compressed segment. During the second stitch placement under endoscopic guidance, it was crucial to ensure the simultaneous penetration of both the PLL and the healthy AF in the medial portion of the tear, while avoiding contact with the nerve root.
In the literature, few studies have reported the AF suturing technique of PETD4,6,15. Most studies have focused on AF suture after lumbar micro endoscopic discectomy (MED) or open discectomy. According to a recent meta-analysis that examined 7 randomized controlled studies and 8 observational studies, it was found that discectomy combined with AF suture can effectively lower the rates of postoperative recurrence and reoperation in patients suffering from LDH16. Li et al.12 found that the combination of AF suture and autologous conditioned plasma intradiscal injection has been studied and shown to effectively decrease the recurrence rate of LDH by 4% when compared to cases where no suture was applied. Another study comparing the clinical outcomes of PETD with MED for AF suture after decompression reported that the MED technique exhibited better preservation of disc height and displayed advantages in terms of a lower recurrence rate, although no statistical difference was observed between the two techniques17.
There were two limitations to this technique. One prerequisite for realizing this technique is that the surgeon must possess rich experience in endoscopic procedures. As a result, there is a certain learning curve associated with the development of this technique. Second, this research was a technical report. The long-term effectiveness of this suturing technique should be examined in a larger sample population. Third, this technique was not applicable for every case with LDH. For instance, if the AF tear became too narrow after decompression, suturing may not be required.

Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PETD), a minimally invasive procedure used to remove herniated discs in the lumbar spine, is performed with an endoscope - a thin tube with a camera and light at the tip that enables the surgeon to visualize internal tissues and surrounding structures on a monitor1. With real-time image guidance on the monitor, surgeons can perform positioning, puncture, and placement of the cannula2 through a small skin incision of approximately 1 cm. Step-by-step exposure under the endoscope follows, including the removal of surrounding soft tissue and foraminoplasty to enlarge the opening of the targeted lumbar foramen. Once a clear view and sufficient operating space are achieved, complete decompression of the lumbar nerve is performed by removing the compressive fragments3.
Preventing postoperative recurrence of disc herniation remains a long-term concern for spine surgeons. One strategy during surgery to minimize the risk of recurrence is to remove all suspected detached nucleus pulposus (NP), even if it has not yet herniated into the canal. This is because a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) cannot be fully repaired, and as a result, detached NP tissue susceptible to intradiscal pressure may potentially reherniate in the future4.
Despite promising advancements in tissue engineering for repairing and regenerating the nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF), none of them have been clinically proven effective5. The direct closure of the AF tear after full decompression is an important technique for reducing the risk of recurrence in lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Currently, the most frequently used suture technique for AF repair under endoscopy involves performing a simple suture with one single stitch at the site of the tear6. Apart from concerns about whether a single stitch can generate enough tension, an insufficient suture area (both in terms of quality and quantity) on both sides of the annular tear is frequently encountered after endoscopic decompression.
Therefore, this study proposes a new technique for suturing the AF after decompression of PETD by pulling and suturing the nearby posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) over the AF tear with three stitches (PLL-AF suture technique).

<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>0.5% lidocaine&#160;</td>
			<td>Beijing Tide Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd</td>
			<td>H37022768</td>
			<td>For postoperative pain</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dilatation cannula</td>
			<td>Beijing Tianqi Medical technology Co., Ltd., Beijing</td>
			<td>ZJ289019</td>
			<td>Cannulation</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Disposable annular stapler&#160;</td>
			<td>Medical Science &#38; Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing</td>
			<td>SMILE-L, 2020</td>
			<td>Suture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Disposable stitches</td>
			<td>Medical Science &#38; Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing</td>
			<td>SMILE-L, 2020-022</td>
			<td>Stitch</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Flurbiprofen axetil&#160;</td>
			<td>Shandong Hualu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.</td>
			<td>H20041508</td>
			<td>For postoperative pain</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Puncture needle</td>
			<td>Beijing Tianqi Medical technology Co., Ltd., Beijing</td>
			<td>ZJ289033</td>
			<td>Puncture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Trephine saws&#160;</td>
			<td>Beijing Tianqi Medical technology Co., Ltd., Beijing</td>
			<td>ZJ289036</td>
			<td>Foraminoplasty</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

a suture technique for ruptured annulus fibrosus following decompression under percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full decompression has been shown to decrease the recurrence rate of lumbar disc herniation during endoscopic surgery. Traditional suture operations under endoscopy involve only simple suturing of the ruptured AF. Due to the weak and poor quality of the AF tissue around the tear portal, using this area as needle insertion points during suturing may lead to insufficient tension and a low success rate of AF closure. Currently, there is no detailed technical illustration based on video for AF tear suturing under lumbar full-endoscopy. We innovatively propose a method of covering and suturing the AF tear by pulling up the posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) under lumbar endoscopy and using three stitches (PLL-AF suture technique). The patient who received the novel suture technique achieved satisfactory results. Six months after the operation, lumbar MRI showed no evidence of recurrence in the outpatient clinic.

After successful and sufficient decompression, the herniated disc at L4/5 (Figure 2A,A&#39;) was resected. Local AF tear (both medial and lateral tear edges) and PLL were identified under the endoscope. The first stitch ensured that the lateral tear edge was contained and sutured. The PLL and the medial AF tear edge were penetrated and stitched along with the first stitch. A third fastened stitch was tied with the second stitch at the cranial side of the first stitch. The key point of this technique is to penetrate the PLL and the medial intact AF and pull to cover and stitch the lateral AF tear.
The demographic information, clinical data, surgical outcomes, and follow-up data of the patient are shown in Table 1. The total operation time was 83 min. The patient was allowed to leave the bed one day after surgery with a lumbar brace. The postoperative VAS7 for leg pain decreased to 1 point. Postoperative MRI showed the successful decompression of the left L4/5 nerve root (Figure 2B,B&#39;). The numb sensation in the lower leg and foot significantly decreased, and the left tibialis anterior strength improved to grade 4+ on the day of discharge. At the six-month follow-up, lumbar MRI was performed, and no evidence of recurrence was observed (Figure 2C,C&#39;). The patient reported no radiating pain or numbness in his left lower limb.
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/65886/65886fig01.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: The schematic diagram of the novel 3-stitch annulus fibrosus (AF) suture technique under endoscope. (A) Local structure of the target level after decompression (PLL indicates the posterior longitudinal ligament). (B) Penetration the first stitch at the lateral section of the AF. (C) Penetration of the second stitch at the PLL and tightening with the first stitch to tie a square knot. (D) Cutting the first stitch yet retaining the second stitch. (E) Penetrating the third stitch at the lateral section of the AF and at the cranial position of the second stitch. (F) Cutting the two stitches after knotting. <a href="https://www-jove-com.remotexs.ntu.edu.sg/files/ftp_upload/65886/65886fig01large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 2" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/65886/65886fig02.jpg" /> 
Figure 2: Preoperative and follow-up lumbar MRIs of the patient under PETD using PLL-AF suture technique. (A)&#160;and (A&#39;) indicates the preoperative sagittal and axial MRIs, showing L4/5 herniation with left nerve root compression. (B)&#160;and (B&#39;) indicates the postoperative MRIs, the nerve root was decompressed. (C) and (C&#39;) indicates the lumbar MRIs at six-month follow-up. <a href="https://www-jove-com.remotexs.ntu.edu.sg/files/ftp_upload/65886/65886fig02large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Parameters</td>
			<td>Values</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Age (years)</td>
			<td>31</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gender</td>
			<td>Female</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BMI#</td>
			<td>25.3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Herniation location</td>
			<td>L4/5</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Herniation type</td>
			<td>Left paramedian type</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Operation time (minutes)</td>
			<td>83</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Preoperative VAS*</td>
			<td>8</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Postoperative VAS</td>
			<td>1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>VAS at 6m follow-up</td>
			<td>0</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>#BMI: body mass index; *VAS: visual analogue scale.</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>
Table 1:&#160;Summary of the demographic information, clinical data, surgical outcomes, and follow-up data of the enrolled patient.

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Author Spotlight: Development and Application of a Novel Suture Technique for Annular Fibrosus Repair in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy at 

Author Spotlight: Development and Application of a Novel Suture Technique for Annular Fibrosus Repair in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

This protocol describes an innovative suture technique for ruptured annular fibrosus during percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy.

A Suture Technique for Ruptured Annulus Fibrosus Following Decompression Under Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full ...

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Nanyang Technological University

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629 Views.  Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital. This protocol describes an innovative suture technique for ruptured annular fibrosus during percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy. 

Video: Author Spotlight: Development and Application of a Novel Suture Technique for Annular Fibrosus Repair in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

Topical Airway Anesthesia for Awake-endoscopic Intubation Using the Spray-as-you-go Technique with High Oxygen Flow

A patient&#39;s willingness to cooperate is an absolute precondition for successful awake intubation of the trachea. Whilst drug-sedation of patients can jeopardize their spontaneous breathing, topical anesthesia of the airway is a popular technique. The spray-as-you-go technique represents one of the simplest opportunities to anesthetize the airway mucosa. The application of local anesthetic through the working channel of the flexible endoscope is a widespread practice for anesthetists as well as pulmonologists. There is neither need for additional devices nor special training as a pre-requisite to perform this technique. However, a known clinical problem is the coughing and gagging reflex that may occur when the liquid anesthetic strikes the airway mucosa and other sensitive structures like the vocal cords. This can be avoided by the use of oxygen applied through the working channel with the aim of fogging the local anesthetic into finer particles. Furthermore, the oxygen flow provides a higher oxygen supply and contributes to a better view, dispersing mucus secretions and blood away from the lens. Using an atomizer with a high oxygen flow of 10 L/min we maximized these benefits, caused less coughing and had more satisfied and therefore cooperative patients. Possible, but very rare complications of using oxygen flow including gastric insufflation, organ rupture or barotrauma did not arise. We attribute the complication-free use of high oxygen flow to the design of the set, which permits flow and pressure release.

The topical anesthetic lidocaine was atomized using a high oxygen flow through the working channel of a flexible intubating endoscope to achieve topical airway anesthesia for awake endotracheal intubation. We prefer this modified spray-as-you-go technique for endoscopic intubation to classical bolus application because of higher patient satisfaction and better compliance.

A patient&#39;s willingness to cooperate is an absolute precondition for successful awake intubation of the trachea. Whilst drug-sedation of patients can ...

Cone Beam Intraoperative Computed Tomography-based Image Guidance for Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is commonly used for the treatment of spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches have been applied to this technique with an associated decrease in estimated blood loss (EBL), length of hospital stay, and infection rates, while preserving outcomes with traditional open surgery. Previous MIS TLIF techniques involve significant fluoroscopy that subjects the patient, surgeon, and operating room staff to non-trivial levels of radiation exposure, particularly for complex multi-level procedures. We present a technique that utilizes an intraoperative computed tomography (CT) scan to aid in placement of pedicle screws, followed by traditional fluoroscopy for confirmation of cage placement. Patients are positioned in the standard fashion and a reference arc is placed in the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) followed by intraoperative CT scan. This allows for image-guidance-based placement of pedicle screws through a one-inch skin incision on each side. Unlike traditional MIS-TLIF that requires significant fluoroscopic imaging during this stage, the operation can now be performed without any additional radiation exposure to the patient or operating room staff. After completion of the facetectomy and discectomy, final TLIF cage placement is confirmed with fluoroscopy. This technique has the potential to decrease operative time and minimize total radiation exposure.

The purpose of this article is to provide image-guidance for minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is commonly used for the treatment of spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. ...

A Mobile Outside-in Technique of Transforaminal Lumbar Endoscopy for Lumbar Disc Herniations

Percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy (PETLD) has now become a standard of care for the management of lumbar disc disease. There are two techniques for the introduction of a working cannula with respect to disc&#8212;outside-in and inside-out. The aim of this prospective study is to describe the technical aspects of a novel mobile outside-in method in dealing with different types of disc prolapse. A total of 184 consecutive patients with unilateral lower limb radiculopathy due to lumbar disc prolapse were operated on with the mobile outside-in technique of PETLD. Their clinical outcomes were evaluated based on the type of disc prolapse they had, a visual analog scale (VAS) leg pain score, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Macnab criteria. The completeness of the decompression was documented with a postoperative magnetic resonance imaging. The mean age of the patients was 50 &#177; 16 years and the male/female ratio was 2:1. The mean follow-up was 19 &#177; 6 months. A total of 190 lumbar levels were operated on (L1&#8211;L2: n = 4, L2&#8211;L3: n = 17, L3&#8211;L4: n = 27, L4&#8211;5: n = 123, and L5&#8211;S1: n = 19). Divided into types, the patient distribution was central: n = 14, paracentral: n = 74, foraminal: n = 28, far lateral: n = 13, superior-migrated: n = 8, inferior migrated: n = 38, and high canal compromise: n = 9. The mean operative time was 35 &#177; 12 (25 - 56) min and the mean hospital stay was 1.2 &#177; 0.5 (1&#8211;3) days. The VAS score for leg pain improved from 7.5 &#177; 1 to 1.7 &#177; 0.9. The ODI improved from 70 &#177; 8.3 to 23 &#177; 5. According to the Macnab criteria, 75 patients (40.8%) had excellent results, 104 patients (56.5%) had good results, and 5 patients (2.7%) had fair results. Recurrence (including early and late) was seen in 15 out of the 190 levels that were operated on (7.89%). This article presents a novel outside-in approach that relies on a precise landing within the foramen in a mobile manner and does not solely depend upon the enlargement of the foramen. It is more versatile in application and useful in the management of all types of disc prolapse, even in severe canal compromise and high migration.

Here we present a protocol of a novel outside-in technique of transforaminal endoscopic discectomy for lumbar disc herniations. The technical aspects of the technique, the wide indications of use, and the results of the treatment in 184 patients are described in detail.

Percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy (PETLD) has now become a standard of care for the management of lumbar disc disease. There are ...

Murine Cervical Aortic Transplantation Model using a Modified Non-Suture Cuff Technique

With the introduction of powerful immunosuppressive protocols, distinct advances are possible in the prevention and therapy of acute rejection episodes. However, only minor improvement in the long-term results of transplanted solid organs could be observed over the past decades. In this context, chronic allograft vasculopathy (CAV) still represents the leading cause of late organ failure in cardiac, renal and pulmonary transplantation.
Thus far, the underlying pathogenesis of CAV development remains unclear, explaining why effective treatment strategies are presently missing and emphasizing a need for relevant experimental models in order to study the underlying pathophysiology leading to CAV formation. The following protocol describes a murine heterotopic cervical aortic transplantation model using a modified non-suture cuff technique. In this technique, a segment of the thoracic aorta is interpositioned in the right common carotid artery. With the use of the non-suture cuff technique, an easy to learn and reproducible model can be established, minimizing the possible heterogeneity of sutured vascular micro anastomoses.

Here, we present a protocol of heterotopic aortic transplantation in mice using the non-suture cuff technique in a cervical murine model. This model can be used to study the underlying pathology of chronic allograft vasculopathy (CAV) and can help evaluate new therapeutic agents in order to prevent its formation.

With the introduction of powerful immunosuppressive protocols, distinct advances are possible in the prevention and therapy of acute rejection episodes. ...

Endaural Endoscopic Atticoantrotomy (Retrograde Mastoidectomy) using a Constant Suction Bone-drilling Technique

Endoscopic middle ear surgery is a widely employed minimally invasive surgical technique to address middle ear and mastoid pathology. Bone drilling is the main technical challenge of endoscopic middle ear surgery. The accompanying video describes the detailed protocol of a constant-suction bone-drilling technique and the procedure of endaural exclusive endoscopic atticoantrotomy (retrograde mastoidectomy) using this technique. The main components of this bone-drilling technique include a soft and flexible suction tube, which is placed into the tympanic cavity to provide constant suction, and a soft sleeve, which is wrapped around the drill shaft to prevent the high-speed rotating shaft from damaging the lens of the endoscope. With these simple modifications, the traditional otological electrodrill can be used for drilling a tiny endaural incision in endoscopic middle ear surgery. Based on this bone-drilling technique, endaural endoscopic atticoantrotomy (retrograde mastoidectomy) can be successfully established for the removal of various amounts of bone, depending on the extent of the lesion. The short-term postoperative outcome seems promising.

Endaural Endoscopic Atticoantrotomy Retrograde Mastoidectomy using a Constant Suction Bone-drilling Technique

In this paper, we present the protocol and short-term outcomes of endaural exclusive endoscopic atticoantrotomy using a constant suction bone-drilling technique.

Endoscopic middle ear surgery is a widely employed minimally invasive surgical technique to address middle ear and mastoid pathology. Bone drilling is the ...

A Two-Step Method for Percutaneous Transhepatic Choledochoscopic Lithotomy

Intrahepatic and extrahepatic choledocholithiasis is a challenge in the field of biliary surgery. We present our experience using a two-step percutaneous transhepatic choledochoscopic lithotomy (PTCSL) procedure to treat challenging biliary stones. We retrospectively reviewed 81 patients with intrahepatic and extrahepatic choledocholithiasis treated using this two-step PTCSL from January 2013 to January 2020, including 40 males and 41 females, with an average age of 66 years. In contrast to traditional percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy (PTCS), a channel was established directly through a 16F Amplatz sheath, and the stone in the channel was removed with the aid of a nephroscope. The clinical efficacy and complications of all patients were analyzed. Eighty-one patients (81/81, 100%) had their biliary stones successfully removed; 62/81 patients (76.5%) had biliary stones completely removed after the first operation; 17/81 patients (21%) underwent a second operation; 2/81 patients (2.5%) needed a third operation to completely remove the stones. The incidence of severe bleeding during the operation was 0%, and there were no deaths. The use of the two-step PTCSL method is safe and efficacious, and contributes to a better prognosis of intrahepatic and extrahepatic choledocholithiasis.

This "two-step method" significantly improved the success rate of percutaneous transhepatic choledochoscopy and achieved a better prognosis of intrahepatic and extrahepatic choledocholithiasis.

Intrahepatic and extrahepatic choledocholithiasis is a challenge in the field of biliary surgery. We present our experience using a two-step percutaneous ...

Endoscopic Cholesteatoma Surgery

Implementation of endoscopes in cholesteatoma surgery resulted in considerable changes in the management of cholesteatoma in the last two decades. Compared to the microscopic approach with an excellent but straight-line view and limited illumination, the introduction of endoscopes provides a wide-angled panoramic view. Moreover, angled lenses allow the surgeon to visualize the middle ear and its hidden recesses through a transcanal, minimally-invasive approach. The endoscope enables the surgeon to remove limited cholesteatoma of the middle ear and its recesses using an exclusive endoscopic technique by taking advantage of these benefits. This reduces the rate of residual disease and sparing external incisions and excessive temporal bone drilling as in a transmastoid approach. Since transcanal endoscopic access is mainly a one-handed technique, it implies the need for specific procedures and technical refinements. This article describes a step-by-step guide as a surgical manual for endoscopic removal of epitympanic cholesteatoma. Different techniques for cholesteatoma dissection and bone removal for epitympanectomy, including curettage and powered instruments such as drills and ultrasonic devices with their outcomes, are discussed. This may offer ear surgeons insight into technical refinements and the latest technological developments and open the horizon for different techniques.

The present protocol describes a step-by-step guide for the complete endoscopic removal of epitympanic cholesteatoma with different techniques for cholesteatoma dissection and bone removal for epitympanectomy.

Implementation of endoscopes in cholesteatoma surgery resulted in considerable changes in the management of cholesteatoma in the last two decades. ...

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a Suture Material in Tendon Surgery

With the evolution of suture materials, there has been a change in paradigms in primary and secondary tendon repair. Improved mechanical properties allow more aggressive rehabilitation and earlier recovery. However, for the repair to hold against higher mechanical demands, more advanced suturing and knotting techniques must be assessed in combination with those materials. In this protocol, the use of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a suture material in combination with different repair techniques was investigated. In the first part of the protocol, both linear tension strength and elongation of knotted against not-knotted strands of three different materials used in flexor tendon repair were evaluated. The three different materials are polypropylene (PPL), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a braided jacket of polyester (UHMWPE), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In the next part (ex vivo experiments with cadaveric flexor tendons), the behavior of PTFE using different suture techniques was assessed and compared with PPL and UHMWPE.
This experiment is comprised of four steps: harvesting of the flexor tendons from fresh cadaveric hands, transection of the tendons in a standardized manner, tendon repair by four different techniques, mounting, and measurement of the tendon repairs on a standard linear dynamometer. The UHMWPE and PTFE showed comparable mechanical properties and were significantly superior to PPL in terms of linear traction strength. Repairs with four- and six-strand techniques proved stronger than two-strand techniques. Handling and knotting of PTFE are a challenge due to very low surface friction but fastening of the four- or six-strand repair is comparatively easy to achieve. Surgeons routinely use PTFE suture material in cardiovascular surgery and breast surgery. The PTFE strands are suitable for use in tendon surgery, providing a robust tendon repair so that early active motion regimens for rehabilitation can be applied.

Polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE as a Suture Material in Tendon Surgery

The present protocol illustrates a method for assessing the biophysical properties of tendon repairs ex vivo. A polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) suture material was evaluated by this method and compared to other materials under different conditions.

With the evolution of suture materials, there has been a change in paradigms in primary and secondary tendon repair. Improved mechanical properties allow ...

Full-Endoscopic Isolation Zone Technique for the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a type of serious sinus or sciatic nerve dysfunction caused by nucleus pulposus protrusion and annulus fibrosus tears. Its clinical symptoms often include severe low back pain, limited lumbar movement, sciatic nerve pain in the lower limbs, and even cauda equina syndrome. The common treatment for LDH is a conservative treatment scheme involving medicine, rest, and physical therapy. However, if the conservative treatment scheme is ineffective, a surgical treatment approach is adopted. Traditional open lumbar surgery has some disadvantages, including the potential for severe surgical trauma, severe blood loss during the operation, instability of the lumbar spine, and loss of the lumbar motor unit. Among the minimally invasive surgical schemes, full-endoscopic spine surgery (FESS) is undoubtedly the most appropriate and has the advantages of minimal trauma, high safety, quick postoperative recovery, and the retention of the stable structure and the motor unit of the lumbar spine. However, simultaneously, incomplete removal of the nucleus pulposus and residual nerve dysfunction after surgery can occur. To avoid these shortcomings, we studied a specific spinal endoscopy technique, the "isolation zone" surgical strategy, which can effectively block the pain from the nerve conduction pathway by completely relieving the nerve compression and nerve dysfunction through the orderly treatment of the protruding nucleus pulposus, the fissure of the annulus fibrosus, the sinus nerve, and the surrounding inflammatory soft tissues.

Here, we present a protocol for the &#34;isolation zone&#34; technique in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) under full-endoscopic spine surgery (FESS), including intervertebral foramen formation, targeted catheterization, nucleus pulposus resection, and annulus fibrosus formation, which together completely block the pain from the nerve conduction pathway.

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a type of serious sinus or sciatic nerve dysfunction caused by nucleus pulposus protrusion and annulus fibrosus tears. Its ...

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach for Thyroid Lobectomy

The manuscript describes the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) for thyroid lobectomy. The patient is placed in the supine position with extension and fixation of the neck. One 20 mm transverse incision and two 5 mm incisions are made through the mucosa of the oral vestibule for camera and instrument placement after disinfection of the skin and oral cavity. The workspace is established and maintained by the skin suspension device, which is made of unabsorbable string (3-0) and rubber bands, and the CO2 insufflation pressure. Lobectomy using a medial-to-lateral technique and prophylactic ipsilateral central neck dissection is performed simultaneously on patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). The specimen is extracted through the 20 mm incision. The parathyroid gland is immediately searched for in the specimen and auto-transplanted to the left brachioradialis. A drainage tube is inserted through the retractor hole into the bed of the thyroid gland, and absorbable sutures are used to close the mucosal incisions in the oral vestibule and the linea alba cervicalis. Prophylactics administered intravenously are recommended for the first 24 h after surgery, and oral antibiotics are used for 7 days postoperatively.

Here, we present a protocol to describe the methodology for the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach in detail.

The manuscript describes the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) for thyroid lobectomy. The patient is placed in the supine ...