ABSTRACT
Objective To analyze the learning curve of microendoscopic lumbar discectomy (MED) and summarize the operative experience. Methods From July 2010 to March 2012, the first 100 patients with single level lumbar disc herniation managed with MED were divided into chronological groups (A, B, C and D), 30 patients in group A, B, C and 10 patients in group D. The comparsons were conducted in terms of operative time , estimated blood loss , number of cases with transition from MED to open surgey or for reoperation , rate of complications and postoperative efficacy. Results The mean operative time and the mean estimated blood loss in each group was valuated respectively. In group A , the operative time and estimated blood loss were significantly decreased as compared with those in group B, C and D respectively (P 0.05). There were 6 complications in group A, 1 complication in group B and C respectively and no complication in group D. The leg pain visual analogue scale and Oswestry disability index at the first month and the twelfth month postoperatively were all improved respectively as compared with those preoperatively (P < 0.01). Conclusion The learning curve of microendoscopic lumbar discectomy generally may reach the plateau when about 30 cases are operated on. The key procedure to pass over the learning curve includes puncture and location , flavectomy , anatomy mark identification, and precaution of damage in dural sac.