Case Report

Aberrant Root Compression due to Lumbar Disc Herniation Case Reports

Volume: 47 Number: 3 September 30, 2025
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Cumhuriyet Medical Journal
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Aberrant Root Compression due to Lumbar Disc Herniation Case Reports

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Lumbosacral nerve root anomalies (NRA) are rare congenital anomalies with an incidence of 0.34%-14% in the general population. These anomalies are often undetected preoperatively and are typically identified intraoperatively, posing a risk for iatrogenic nerve root injury. Preoperative detection via MRI is crucial for surgical planning and prevention of complications. Case Reports Case 1. A 42-year-old male patient presented with left hip and leg pain. Neurological examination revealed an absent left Achilles tendon reflex without muscle strength deficits. MRI showed L5-S1 disc herniation, and lumbar microdiscectomy was planned. During surgery, the L5 and S1 nerve roots were observed to be closely positioned, with the disc fragment compressing the S1 root. The fragment was removed, and the patient fully recovered postoperatively. Case 2. A 37-year-old male patient presented with pain in the left leg and weakness in the left foot. Low foot was present in the left ankle. MRI showed left L5-S1 disc herniation. Lumbar microsurgery operation was planned. During the operation, it was observed that the L5 and S1 nerve roots, which originated from the same root, were very observed to be closely positioned. The disc compressing the L5 root axilla and S1 root shoulder was observed and the disc fragment was removed. Discussion NRA result from abnormal root migration during embryological development. Postacchini’s classification is commonly used, and this case corresponds to Type 3. Diagnostic challenges can arise due to the lack of coronal MRI sections. Surgical approaches should minimize root retraction, and advancements in microdiscectomy techniques provide effective treatment options. Conclusion Spinal root anomalies are rare and often overlooked conditions. Careful preoperative evaluation and precise microdiscectomy techniques are essential to avoid intraoperative iatrogenic injuries.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Health Services and Systems (Other)

Journal Section

Case Report

Authors

Publication Date

September 30, 2025

Submission Date

April 27, 2025

Acceptance Date

June 19, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 47 Number: 3

IZ

https://izlik.org/JA47NN48LU

Cite

RIS / Bibtex
AMA
1.Karagöz GA, Araç D, İzci EK, Keskin F. Aberrant Root Compression due to Lumbar Disc Herniation Case Reports. CMJ. 2025;47(3):39-42. https://izlik.org/JA47NN48LU