Minimally invasive versus open surgery for cervical and lumbar discectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Minimally invasive surgery for discectomy may accelerate recovery and reduce pain, but it also requires technical expertise and is associated with increased risks. We performed a meta-analysis to determine the effects of minimally invasive versus open surgery on functional outcomes, pain, complications and reoperations among patients undergoing cervical or lumbar discectomy.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library for reports of relevant randomized controlled trials published to Jan. 12, 2014. Two reviewers assessed the eligibility of potential reports and the risk of bias of included trials. We analyzed functional outcomes and pain using standardized mean differences (SMDs) that were weighted and pooled using a random-effects model.

Resu

SUBMITTER: Evaniew N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4251505 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature