This study examined 42 patients after lumbar disc surgery to assess postoperative spinal changes using nonlinear diagnostics (NLS).
NLS was used to identify scar tissue, recurrent or residual disc herniations, spinal instability, ligament hypertrophy, osteoarthritis, and spinal canal narrowing.
The method demonstrated the ability to visualize postoperative complications such as paravertebral abscesses, fistulous tracts, spondylodiscitis, and pseudomeningoceles.
Recurrent lumbar disc herniation was a common finding, particularly during the early and intermediate postoperative periods.
Late postoperative changes frequently included epidural scarring, degenerative joint alterations, and stenosis of intervertebral foramina.
Overall, the authors concluded that NLS may be useful for monitoring patients after lumbar disc surgery and for detecting postoperative complications and structural changes.

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