Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various spinal conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. This surgery is performed through small incisions, using specialised instruments and a camera to visualise the spine. Endoscopic spine surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and prevent the progression of spinal degeneration.
Advantages of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
- Minimally invasive: The small incisions used in endoscopic spine surgery result in less tissue damage, leading to faster recovery and less pain. This is because the procedure only requires small incisions and minimal disruption of the surrounding tissue, resulting in less scarring and postoperative pain.
- Improved visualisation: Using a camera allows the surgeon to see the spine in great detail, enhancing the procedure’s accuracy and reducing the risk of complications.
- Reduced blood loss is associated with less blood loss than traditional open surgery. This is because the procedure is less invasive and results in less bleeding.
- Reduced risk of infection: The smaller incisions in the spine reduce the risk of infection. This is because the procedure limits the exposure of the body’s internal organs to the external environment and reduces the risk of bacteria entering the surgical site.
Candidates for the Surgery
- Individuals with chronic back or neck pain who have not responded to non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, pain medication, or epidural injections.
- Individuals with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.
- Individuals with spinal tumours or cysts.
- Individuals with scoliosis or other spinal deformities.
Preparation
- Your surgeon will perform a thorough medical evaluation to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
- Before the procedure, you must stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.
- You will need to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
- You will need to arrange transportation to and from the hospital and someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after the procedure.
Procedure
- The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia.
- The surgeon will make small incisions in the skin over the affected spinal area.
- Specialised instruments and cameras will be used to visualise the spine and remove any damaged or diseased tissue.
- The incisions will be closed with sutures or staples.
Recovery
- Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and the individual patient.
- You will likely experience some pain and discomfort in the days following the procedure.
- You will be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort.
- You will be instructed to avoid certain activities, such as lifting heavy objects or bending at the waist, for some time after the procedure.
- You will need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and ensure that the procedure was successful.
- You will also have to follow a physical therapy regimen to aid in your recovery and regain your mobility.
Risks and Complications
- The risk of complications is generally low.
- Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications with you before the procedure.
It is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat a variety of spinal conditions. The process is associated with less tissue damage, faster recovery times, and less pain than traditional open surgery. It is essential to discuss the benefits and risks with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure to determine if it is the right option for you.
