What is Endoscopic Discectomy surgery?

Dr Om Patil

Endoscopic spine surgeon in Mumbai

Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat herniated or bulging discs in the spine. It is a technique commonly used to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by pressure on spinal nerves due to a damaged or displaced disc.

Here's an overview of how endoscopic discectomy works:

1. Small Incision: Unlike traditional open surgery, endoscopic discectomy involves making a very small incision, typically less than 1 inch in size, near the affected disc.

2. Endoscope Insertion: An endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light source at its tip, is inserted through the incision. The camera provides real-time images of the inside of the spine, allowing the surgeon to visualize the affected disc and surrounding structures.

3. Disc Removal: Specialized surgical instruments are passed through the endoscope to remove or trim the herniated or damaged portion of the disc. This relieves the pressure on the spinal nerves and reduces pain.

4. Minimal Tissue Disruption: One of the key advantages of endoscopic discectomy is that it minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, muscles, and ligaments. This can lead to a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery.

5. Stitch or Bandage: After the procedure, the small incision may be closed with a stitch or covered with a bandage. In some cases, no stitches are needed.

Endoscopic discectomy is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can typically go home the same day as the procedure. It has become a popular choice for individuals with herniated discs who want a faster recovery and less scarring compared to traditional open surgery. However, not all cases of disc herniation are suitable for endoscopic discectomy, and the decision on the appropriate treatment approach should be made in consultation after a spine specialist or a spine surgeon thoroughly evaluate the spinal condition and advice accordingly.

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Spine surgeon in Mumbai