Different operative possibilities for treatment of lumbar disc herniations--how to choose the best method for the individual patient.

The indications for operative treatment of lumbar disc herniations are outlined and the advantages, short-comings and temptations of discolysis, micro-operation and large approach discussed. The following indication scheme is proposed: Discolysis: Non-displaced disc herniation without other major causative pathology; Micro-operation: Displaced disc herniation; non-displaced disc herniation with monosegmental additional causative factors; Large approach: Multiple disc herniations with suspected displacement and multisegmental additional pathologies.