Mr. Lee (pseudonym), a Hong Kong patient suffering from severe pain due to lumbar disc herniation, experienced a recurrence and worsening of symptoms shortly after undergoing traditional lumbar surgery at another hospital. Recently, he regained a "pain-free life" after undergoing minimally invasive endoscopic spinal surgery at the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH).

Dr. Wu Tailin from the hospital’s Spine Surgery Division examined Mr.Lee and noted a 5 cm surgical scar on his lower back. In January 2025, Mr.Lee had been diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation at another hospital due to intense lower back pain and "knife-like" pain radiating down his left leg, severely limiting his mobility. He underwent traditional open lumbar surgery, but the pain only temporarily eased before recurring and intensifying.

Lee tried various conservative treatments, but the pain persisted. "My friends saw my condition and suggested I seek treatment in Shenzhen. I had wanted to come earlier, but the pain was so severe I couldn’t even walk," Lee said. In late June, he visited HKU-SZH’s Spine Surgery Division for consultation.

After a thorough examination and imaging review, Dr. Wu confirmed the diagnosis of L4/5 disc herniation and recommended endoscopic discectomy. The case was then discussed with Dr. Fan Degang, Associate Consultant of Spine Surgery, offering Lee new hope.

Lateral Approach Avoids Adhesion Risks

Awake Surgery with Local Anesthesia

Dr. Fan, with over 30 years of experience in orthopedics, specializes in treating spinal conditions. He noted, "The patient’s previous surgery caused severe nerve adhesions, significantly increasing the difficulty and risk of nerve damage in this procedure." To address this, the team opted for a lateral approach, making a 1 cm incision to bypass the adhesion-affected area.

Dr. Fan Degang (right) and Dr. Wu Tailin (center) during the surgical procedure

In early July, Lee underwent successful endoscopic discectomy under local anesthesia, remaining awake throughout the two-hour procedure.

"It was a unique experience. At first, I was nervous, but hearing the doctors’ professional dialogue reassured me," Lee recalled.

No drainage tube was needed post-surgery, and Lee was able to walk with assistance. After standardized rehabilitation care, he was discharged the next day with almost no residual pain.

Prioritizing Spinal Health

Adopting Healthy Habits

Lumbar disc herniation, a common spinal condition, occurs when the intervertebral disc’s nucleus pulposus protrudes due to degenerative changes or external forces, compressing nerve roots and causing pain or numbness in the lower limbs.

Dr. Fan emphasized that treatment depends on symptom severity. Mild cases may improve with rest, physical therapy, or traction, while severe cases require medication or surgery. He advised maintaining good posture and exercise habits to delay or prevent the onset of lumbar disc herniation.

Dr. Fan Degang conducted physical examination on Mr. Lee

"Patient-first" is the philosophy of HKU-SZH. The hospital’s Orthopedics Department, a national key clinical specialty, brings together experts to provide high-quality medical and humanistic services, enhancing health outcomes for Greater Bay Area residents.