Low-Dose Collagenase Chemonucleolysis Combined with Radiofrequency in the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Objective. This study explored the 10-year efficacy, safety, and prognostic factors of low-dose collagenase chemonucleolysis (CCNL) combined with radiofrequency (RF) in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods. The data of 167 LDH patients were collected. Modified MacNab criteria, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores were, respectively, used to evaluate patients’ excellent and good rates, pain degree, and nerve function. The preoperative and 10-year postoperative patients’ pain, numbness, and muscle weakness were compared. Patients’ complications in perioperative period, recurrent/reappeared LDH, and reoperations were recorded. Finally, the independent risk factors affecting the long-time efficacy were assessed. Results. A total of 126 patients were included. The patients’ excellent and good rates were 86.51%–92.86% with no significant difference P>0.05. Postoperative NRS and JOA scores significantly improved P12 months has a more significant impact.