Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy for sciatica is adequate to support the use of this procedure provided that standard arrangements are in place for clinical governance, consent and audit.
Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy for sciatica is a procedure that needs particular experience. Surgeons should acquire the necessary expertise through specific training and mentoring. It should only be done by surgeons who do the procedure regularly.
Details about all patients having percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy for sciatica should be entered onto the British Spine Registry.