Objective To investigate the difficulties in posterior approach lumbar microendoscopic discectomy (MED). Methods We retrospectively analyzed records of 42 cases of lumbar disc protrusion (totally 45 interspaces) treated by MED from February 2002 to October 2003. Results Conversion to open surgery was required in 3 cases.No intra- or post- operative complications were seen.Follow-up survey for 2 ～ 22 months (mean,8 months) found the "good" or "excellent" results in 95 2% of the patients (40/42).Surgical difficulties were mainly classified into two aspects: technical and etiological,including 8 cases of failure of collimation between the passage and the interspace,5 cases of excessive bleeding disturbing the operation,3 cases of incomplete surgical apparatus,2 cases of incorrect passage localization,2 cases of hyperplasia in tiny joints,1 case of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament,1 case of nerve root edema,1 case of accretion,and 1 case of laceration,respectively. Conclusions Treatment of lumbar disc protrusion with MED gives satisfactory efficacy.Proper selection of patients and careful performance during surgery are essential to a successful procedure.

The article reviewed the current status, reform measures and progress of the tiered medical services in Zhejiang province, and analyzed main roadblocks in such a system.Proposals made in the paper include such reform measures as further expanding quality medical resources of better talents and equipments to enhance primary medical institutions;forming the gatekeeper practice featuring firstvisit at community health centers with enhanced primary capabilities;insisting on joint reform of medical treatment, medical insurance and drugs, promoting the development of tiered medical services and utilization efficiency of medical resources in the province.

The paper covered the initial success of Zhejiang province in furthering its development of a basic healthcare system in alignment of social and economic growth. Such progress has been achieved by adhering to the principles of coordinated arrangement,highlighting key points and step-by-step progress. Also presented are the methods and experiences of the province in its reform and perspectives for furthering the ongoing reform.

Covered in the paper are the policies and progress of the county-level public hospital reform in the province,and a summarized analysis of the self-appraisal reports and hospital reform statements submitted by the health authorities and up to 300 hospitals in 79 counties of the province.As found in the papers,the ongoing reform in Zhejiang is focused on reforming the business models in place,seeking breakthroughs from the zero mark-up policy on drug sales,in addition to such policies as reducing drug costs,adjusting medical service pricing,financial subsidies,and medical insurance payment reforms.Despite the initial success,further policy studies are needed in terms of internal management,upper and lower linkage,and personnel incentives.