Percutaneous mechanical lumbar disc decompression using the enSpire™ interventional discectomy system: a preliminary study

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The enSpire™ interventional discectomy system is a new device for treating percutaneous disc decompression (PDD). The outcomes of using the enSpire™ for lumbar disc herniation have not been previously reported. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical effectiveness and safety of the enSpire™ interventional discectomy system for lumbar disc herniation with radiating pain. METHODS: Twelve patients with lumbar disc herniation with radiating leg pain were enrolled in the study. All patients received PDD using enSpire™. Numeric rating scale (NRS) scores for pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were obtained initially and after 1 and 3 months. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1, in which the NRS score improved by more than 50% at 3 months after procedure, and Group 2, in which the NRS score remained the same or improved by less than 50%. RESULTS: After PDD using the enSpire™, the NRS scores decreased from 6.9 ± 1.2 to 2.8 ± 2.7; and ODI scores decreased from 25.8 ± 4.6 to 18.2 ± 5.5. No statistical differences occurred between Group 1 (n = 8) and Group 2 (n = 4) except in the duration of prior illness. CONCLUSIONS: The enSpire™ interventional discectomy system is effective and safe over the short-term, minimally invasive, and easy to use.