CONTRALATERAL PAIN IN RECURRENT LUMBAR DISC HERNIATION: CASE REPORT

DOR CONTRALATERAL EM HéRNIA DISCAL LOMBAR RECIDIVADA: RELATO DE CASO

DOLOR CONTRALATERAL EN HERNIA DISCAL LUMBAR RECURRENTE: REPORTE DE CASO

Contralateral radiculopathy due to disc herniation (DH) is a rare and challenging condition. Contralateral symptoms may result from nerve root traction or local inflammation, complicating surgical decision-making. This case report describes the endoscopic treatment of a recurrent lumbar DH with contralateral symptoms. A 48-year-old woman with low back pain radiating to the left lower limb (LLL) was diagnosed with L4-L5 DH. After conservative treatment failure, endoscopic discectomy was performed with significant improvement. Five months later, the patient presented with recurrent DH and intense pain in the right lower limb (RLL). A new left extra-foraminal endoscopic procedure was performed, resulting in symptom resolution and functional recovery. Contralateral DH may result from preexisting stenosis or inflammation. The endoscopic approach offers a less invasive and effective treatment option with rapid recovery. Endoscopic surgery was effective in treating recurrent DH with contralateral symptoms, but further studies are needed to determine the best approach. Level of Evidence IV; Case Report.

Keywords:
Intervertebral Disc Displacement; Endoscopic Surgical Procedures; Radiculopathy; Recurrence.