Radiographic changes after lumbar discectomy. Sequential enhanced computed tomography in relation to clinical observations.

Fifty patients, with single-level disc herniations verified by computed tomography, took part in a study where they were randomized to either microsurgery or standard surgery. The aim of the study was to describe the changes on a series of radiographic examinations after disc resection, and to relate these changes to clinical symptoms. The study was prospective and the patients were examined with contrast-enhanced computed tomography during the first postoperative week, after 1-2 months, and after 1 year. At 1 year after surgery 16 patients showed posterior disc protrusion, 47 showed scar tissue, and 13 showed nerve root displacement. Microsurgically operated patients did not show less scar tissue. None of the postoperative radiographic changes had any definite correlation to remaining back pain or leg pain.