Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Utilizing Ultra-Minimally Invasive Technology
What is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery offers minimally invasive techniques to treat spinal issues effectively. Endoscopic microdiscectomy is a new, minimally invasive spine surgery for acutely herniated discs. With this technique, your surgeon places a guide wire to the affected level under fluoroscopic guidance. A series of dilators will then gently open up the space, allowing for a portal trochar to be placed. This trochar serves as a shield to help protect the surrounding nerve and allow your surgeon to remove your disc herniation under direct visualization via a camera and with long tools through a small portal incision.
Laminectomy is another minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often due to spinal stenosis. During a laminectomy, the surgeon removes part of the vertebra, known as the lamina, to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, alleviating pain and improving function.
Benefits of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Spinal endoscopic surgery offers a huge advantage over traditional types of spine surgeries in many circumstances. While using an endoscope, we can do it without disrupting all that muscle, without removing all that bone.
- Smaller incisions
- Muscle spreading (vs cutting muscle)
- Less post-surgical discomfort
- Shorter recovery time compared to traditional treatment options
Common Conditions for Endoscopic Surgery
Disc Herniations
A disc herniation is a displacement of disc material beyond the normal confines of the disc space, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. This can cause symptoms such as back pain, sciatica, numbness, and weakness in the limbs. One effective solution for treating disc herniations is an endoscopic microdiscectomy. This minimally invasive procedure allows the surgeon to remove the herniated portion of the disc using a small portal incision and specialized tools, reducing pain and improving function.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as back pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Commonly affecting the lower back and neck, spinal stenosis can be caused by aging, arthritis, or other degenerative changes in the spine. One effective solution for relieving the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves is an endoscopic laminectomy. This minimally invasive procedure involves the removal of part of the vertebra, known as the lamina, to create more space and alleviate symptoms.
Types of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Microdiscectomy
Endoscopic microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique designed to treat acutely herniated discs. The purpose of this procedure is to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves, reducing pain and improving mobility. During the procedure, the surgeon uses fluoroscopic guidance to place a guide wire to the affected disc. A series of dilators gently open up the space, allowing for a portal trochar to be inserted. This trochar serves as a protective shield for the surrounding nerves, enabling the surgeon to remove the herniated disc under direct visualization with a camera and specialized tools through a small portal incision. To learn more about this effective treatment, visit our Microdiscectomy page.
Endoscopic Laminectomy
Endoscopic laminectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis. The purpose of this procedure is to alleviate pain and improve function by creating more space within the spinal canal. During the procedure, the surgeon removes part of the vertebra, known as the lamina, through a small incision. Using specialized instruments and a camera, the surgeon can directly visualize and carefully remove the lamina, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. To learn more about this effective treatment, visit our Laminectomy page.
Living Life Again
At VSI, we celebrate every patient’s unique journey as a series of victories, regardless of how big or small. Our logo and brand were crafted for you, our incredible patients. Your progress towards your goals deserves the spotlight, reflecting our commitment to individualized treatment and care. Your Victories are what make VSI who we are! #MyVictoryStory
Are You a Candidate for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Consult with our team of expert spine surgeons to discuss your eligibility and evaluate the next steps to achieve the pain relief you need.
