Insertion of an annular disc implant at lumbar discectomy

3.1 Insertion of an annular disc implant at lumbar discectomy aims to reduce the incidence of recurrent herniation and the degree of intervertebral disc collapse.

3.2 With the patient under general anaesthesia, the herniated disc material is removed and the annular disc device is implanted. The device typically contains a metallic bone‑anchoring component and a woven polymer mesh. The bone‑anchoring component is inserted using a mallet and tamp into one of the vertebral bodies adjacent to the discectomy site, and the woven mesh component is inserted into the annular disc defect, so covering the residual nucleus pulposus. Fluoroscopy may be used to guide the procedure.