Fig. 1

Percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy using intermittent endoscopy technique for a 40-year-old male patient with L5–S1 disc herniation. a, b Preoperative MRI image showing compression of dura and right S1 nerve root by disc herniation. c, d Place the needle into the disc. Intraoperative x-ray showing the placement of the dilator. e, f The working cannula was rotated in, and the location was confirmed with C-arm fluoroscopy before discectomy. g Intraoperative view in interlaminar access with S1 nerve root (arrow) and the herniation (star). h Intraoperative view in interlaminar access with S1 nerve root (arrow), ruptured annulus fibrosus (star) after removal of the herniation. i Disc pulposus. j, k 31 month postoperative MRI showing removal and good decompression of nerve root and dura