Evidence from 29 studies (n=4472), including 16 RCTs and 13 non-RCTs, was reviewed and, where possible, pooled to evaluate outcomes associated with 2 minimally invasive techniques (MI) and a conventional open microdiscectomy (MD) in the treatment of sciatica due to lumbar disc herniation. 21 studies compared interlaminar minimally invasive discectomy (ILMI) against MD, and estimates suggested no difference in clinical outcomes, such as pain, function and work status, but ILMI was associated with reduced blood loss and hospital stay. Additional high-quality evidence is needed in the comparisons of these three surgical techniques for the treatment of sciatica from disc herniation.