Endoscopic Microdiscectomy
A Minimally Invasive Surgery
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Are you anxious to find a way to relieve your neck/arm pain or back/leg pain? Would you feel more comfortable in knowing that we practice a comprehensive approach when suggesting pain relief procedures and minimally invasive spine surgery when it is what you need?
We have answers and options available to relieve pain from herniated discs, disc bulges, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, cervical or lumbar radiculopathy, spondylolisthesis, spondylosis and arthritis.
We are excited for you to meet our Board-Certified Surgeons and Pain Specialists who can educate you about our latest procedures in minimally invasive spine surgery. Our philosophy is centered around the more conservative indications for non-fusion surgical options, simple and safe surgeries with the latest technology, and pain treatments to aid in a successful recovery.
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Defined as a minimally invasive surgery, endoscopic microdiscectomy requires a small incision, usually no larger than 1 cm, and x-rays to gain access to the lumbar spine.
Under x-ray guidance, a series of muscle dilators are used to stretch soft tissue (instead of cutting muscles) and create a path for the endoscope. Special instruments can also be used to shave down arthritic bone that may also be compressing a nerve. Once placed, the endoscope allows the physician to use direct visualization of the disc, nerve, and other structures to safely remove the problematic disc, freeing up the nerves.
Unlike traditional open surgery, in which muscles, ligaments, and even and bones might be severed to reach the specified area; endoscopic microdiscectomy uses an endoscope, or small camera, to magnify the area where the microdiscectomy will be performed. Through the use of this technique only a small portion of the herniated disc that is compressing the spinal nerve needs to be removed.
What are the details of the endoscopic microdiscectomy surgery?
What is a minimally invasive endoscopic microdiscectomy?
An endoscopic microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive endoscopic surgery that allows direct visualization of the disc and nerves. This procedure is used for decompressing nerve roots damaged by compressed spinal discs. It is usually indicated in patients with a herniated or compressed lumbar disc, who have not found adequate pain relief with pain management injections or conservative treatment.
Many patients who suffer from sciatica, referred pain down either legs, and/or low back pain may be a candidate for this procedure. This procedure can also help in relieving pain associated with spinal stenosis and low back arthritis.
What to expect after the procedure?
If you are suffering from low-back pain and have been researching minimally invasive spine surgery as well as laser spine surgery, schedule an appointment to speak to one of our specialists. You may find that endoscopic microdiscectomy is the perfect solution for you. Often, this procedure is covered by healthcare insurance.
What are the benefits associated with an endoscopic microdiscectomy?
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Minimally invasive surgery – less trauma to muscles and soft tissue than with traditional open surgery
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Quick recovery time
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Minimal pain or discomfort following the surgery
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Immediate leg pain relief in most cases
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Fewer complications and risks than open spine surgery
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Small incision and minimal scar tissue
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High success rate and sustained success of the therapy
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No or minimal blood loss
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Use of local anesthesia
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Visual endoscopic control of the treatment
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No hardware placement or loss of mobility
While this is an outpatient surgery, we do recommend resting for a prescribed period postoperatively and then gradually increasing activity levels with instruction and supervision by your providers. You will also be advised to wear a back brace for added support during the healing process.
What are the indications for a microdiscectomy?
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Compressed disc, usually with herniation that is causing back or leg pain, or neurological symptoms.
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Failure of more conservative treatments, including pain management injections, to provide sufficient long term relief.
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High suspicion of discogenic cause on imaging or by diagnostic procedures.