What is endoscopic spine surgery?
If you’re dealing with chronic back pain or a herniated disc, the idea of spine surgery can be overwhelming. Fortunately, endoscopic spine surgery provides a less invasive option. It helps reduce pain, speeds up recovery, and leaves smaller scars.
In this blog, we’ll explain endoscopic spine surgery, how it works, and why it’s gaining popularity for people seeking relief.
What is endoscopic spine surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery refers to a group of procedures designed to treat spinal disorders using small incisions and a camera for visualization. The camera (endoscope) allows the surgeon to view the spine on a monitor, guiding them as they perform the surgery.
This technique can be used to treat a range of conditions affecting the spine, including:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Nerve root compression
- Facet joint syndrome
- Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis or kyphosis
The endoscope allows for precise work in hard-to-reach areas of the spine, reducing the need for extensive incisions and muscle dissection. This minimizes the risk of complications, such as infection and bleeding.
What are the benefits of getting endoscopic spine surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery offers significant advantages over traditional spine surgery:
- Less invasive procedures: Endoscopic spine surgery uses smaller incisions, which means less muscle and tissue dissection. This leads to less postoperative pain and a lower risk of infection.
- Reduced recovery time: Since the procedure is less invasive, patients generally results in a quicker recovery time. Many patients are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks, compared to months of recovery with traditional spine surgery.
- Lower risk of complications: Because there is less disruption to the muscles, nerves, and ligaments surrounding the spine, there is a lower risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage.
- Reduced pain: By directly targeting the problem area with precision, patients often experience rapid relief from symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness.
- Smaller scars: The small incisions used in endoscopic surgery leave minimal scarring, which is aesthetically beneficial for patients.
Is endoscopic spine surgery safe?
One of the most important questions for patients considering endoscopic spine surgery is, “Is it safe?” The answer is generally yes, as long as the procedure is performed out by a skilled and experienced spine surgeon.
As with any surgery, there are risks, but the benefits of endoscopic spine surgery, such as reduced invasiveness and quicker recovery, often outweigh the potential risks.
Patients should consult with a qualified surgeon who can evaluate their condition and determine whether they are suitable candidates for this minimally invasive procedure.
For whom endoscopic spine surgery is suitable?
Endoscopic spine surgery may not be suitable for everyone. As with any surgery, it’s essential to consult with your surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for this approach.
In general, these techniques work well for patients who:
- Have not experienced relief with conservative therapy.
- Have specific spinal conditions that respond well to endoscopic surgery, such as disc herniation or spinal stenosis.
- Have not undergone repeat back surgeries or had multiple incisions in the past.
- Do not have any underlying health conditions that could disqualify them from the procedure.
What to expect with endoscopic spine surgery?
Before the procedure
Consultation and evaluation: Our surgeon at King’s spine surgery will review your medical history, symptoms, and imaging (X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans) to assess if you’re a good candidate for endoscopic spine surgery. They will also explain the procedure, answer questions, and discuss risks and benefits.
Preoperative preparation: You may need to follow specific instructions before the surgery, such as fasting for several hours or stopping certain medications. You will also undergo routine tests, like blood work, to ensure you’re in good health for the procedure.
During the procedure
- Anesthesia: Endoscopic spine surgery is typically performed under anesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Small incisions and camera insertion: The surgeon will make one or more small incisions, usually around 1 inch in length, through which they will insert the endoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light). The camera allows the surgeon to view the spine on a monitor in real-time.
- Surgical instruments: Through small incisions, our surgeon will use specialized instruments to remove and/or repair the damaged tissue, such as herniated discs or bone spurs, that are causing pressure on the nerves.
- Closure: To finish, they will inject a long-acting numbing medication into your incision area, cover it with a bandage, and take you to your recovery room.
Post-procedure
- You will be prescribed strong pain relievers to manage pain. Pain and numbness usually subside over time.
- You’ll be advised to limit your activities for the first few days after surgery.
- Our physical therapist will perform physical therapy to aid in the recovery process and teach you how to move safely.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects for a month.
- Our surgeon will arrange follow-up visits to monitor your progress, assess your recovery, and address any concerns.
The endoscopic spine surgery recovery time is typically shorter than traditional spine surgeries, allowing for a quicker return to daily activities.
Consult King's Spine Centre for endoscopic spine surgery in Dubai
If you’re considering endoscopic spine surgery, visit King’s Spine Centre—an integral part of King’s College Hospital, one of the best spine hospitals in Dubai. Our team of top spine doctors provides personalized, evidence-based care for both pediatric and adult patients.
Whether you’re dealing with herniated discs, spinal deformities, trauma, tumors, or infections, we utilize a combination of conservative methods and cutting-edge surgical techniques to achieve the best outcomes.
Let us guide you on the path to quick recovery with the latest advanced spinal care.
