Complete Guide to Endoscopic Spine Surgery

Endoscopic Spine Surgery Explained by Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj

Are you experiencing chronic back pain or leg pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica)? If so, you may be a candidate for endoscopic spine surgery. This minimally invasive surgical technique offers a quicker recovery and less pain compared to traditional open spine surgery.

What is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?

Endoscopic spine surgery is a state-of-the-art surgical approach that utilizes a small incision, and a specialized instrument called an endoscope.

An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube equipped with a high-definition camera that allows surgeons to visualize the inside of the spine on a monitor.

This minimally invasive approach minimizes muscle disruption and blood loss, leading to faster recovery times and less post-operative pain.

Endoscopic spine surgery can be used to treat a variety of spinal conditions, including:

1. Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner cushion of a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain.
2. Foraminal stenosis: This condition involves narrowing of the foramen, the opening through which nerves exit the spinal canal. This narrowing can compress nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness.
3. Spondylosis: Spondylosis is a general term for the wear and tear of the spine that occurs with age.
4. Degenerative disc disease: Degenerative disc disease refers to the breakdown of the discs between the vertebrae in the spine.

Symptoms That May Benefit from Endoscopic Discectomy

Endoscopic discectomy is a type of endoscopic spine surgery commonly used to treat herniated discs.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for endoscopic discectomy:

1. Radicular pain: This is a sharp, burning pain that radiates down the leg from the lower back. It is often described as shooting or electric shock-like pain.
2. Sciatica: Sciatica is a specific type of radicular pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the leg.
3. Numbness or weakness in the leg: A herniated disc can compress nerves, leading to numbness or weakness in the leg.
4. Difficulty walking or standing: Pain and weakness caused by a herniated disc can make it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods.

Types of Endoscopic Spine Procedures

Endoscopic spine surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to address different spinal conditions.

Here’s an overview of some common endoscopic spine procedures:

1. Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy: As mentioned earlier, this procedure removes a herniated disc fragment compressing nerves in the lower back.
2. Endoscopic Foraminotomy: This minimally invasive technique enlarges the foramen, the opening through which nerves exit the spinal canal, to relieve nerve compression and associated pain.
3. Endoscopic Transfacet Joint Injections: When facet joints, which connect vertebrae, become inflamed, endoscopic injections can deliver medication directly to the site to reduce inflammation and pain.
4. Endoscopic Fusion Procedures: While traditional spinal fusions involve larger incisions, advancements allow for minimally invasive techniques using endoscopes to achieve spinal fusion for certain conditions.

Endoscopic Spine Surgery Recovery Time

One of the significant advantages of endoscopic spine surgery is the faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Patients typically go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.

The exact recovery timeline depends on the specific procedure performed and your individual healing process. Physical therapy usually plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, focusing on strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and core stability.

Endoscopic Spine Surgery in Chennai

If you’re seeking a qualified Endoscopic spine surgeon in Chennai, India, Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj is a leading expert in this field.

He offers advanced endoscopic techniques to treat various spinal conditions, allowing for a quicker return to your daily activities.

Considering Endoscopic Spine Surgery in Chennai?

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or leg pain that may benefit from endoscopic spine surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj.

During the consultation, he will thoroughly discuss your specific condition, explain the benefits and risks of endoscopic surgery compared to other treatment options, and help you determine if this approach is the right choice for you.

Find an Experienced Endoscopic Spine Surgeon in Chennai

Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj is a highly qualified and experienced endoscopic spine surgeon in Chennai. He is committed to providing personalized care and utilizing advanced surgical techniques to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients.