Photonucleolysis of intervertebral disc and its herniation. Preparation to percutaneous laser discectomy.

Making use of a whole-body stereotactic device under model conditions a human intervertebral disc and its herniations could be targeted and removed with a laser by photocoagulation. The applicable cannulae are 3 mm in diameter and of a 6 to 12 W output power. The required effect is reached within one minute. The situation is now prepared for the clinical introduction of the new technique of discectomy, which is still performed with chemicals or mechanically section and suction.