What Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery is a modern, state-of-the-art form of minimally invasive spine surgery that is meant to help the patient recover faster than traditional spine surgery methods. By definition, ESS is a type of surgery that uses small cuts usually less than 1 inch and small tubular systems along with an endoscope to see the surgical site. Endoscopic surgery is often used to treat other parts of the body, like the digestive system. However, improvements in optics, tissue visualization, and spinal imaging have made ESS an option for many patients who need surgery.
The Surgical Process
To begin, the patient will get pre-operative care, which may include the injection of a local anesthetic to numb any discomfort. After making a skin incision little larger than one inch in length, a tubular trocar that is approximately the width of a pencil is then inserted.
The specific diagnosis of the patient will determine which of two ways the endoscopic technique will access the spine: either an interlaminar approach which is from the back of the spine between two laminae or a transforaminal approach which is from the back/side of the spine into the neuroforamen; a nerve passageway.
After that, a little camera is positioned where it needs to be on the spine by inserting it via the trocar. The camera takes pictures of the surgical site in real time and displays them on a monitor that is within the direct line of sight of the operating surgeon. During the course of the operation, the endoscopic camera provides the operating surgeon with assistance and direction.
Benefits Of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
There are always potential advantages and drawbacks involved with surgery, and endoscopic spinal surgery is no exception to this rule. Because of this, it is essential that you and your spine surgeon carefully assess and talk about the possible advantages and drawbacks of treating your spinal disease with an endoscopic spine surgery technique.
Because of the small incisions and the hyper-targeting of the surgical site, there is less stress to the patient’s skin, muscle, and other soft tissues, which results in less blood loss and a quicker recovery time. In addition, the majority of ESS treatments may be finished in approximately an hour, which enables the person to be back on their feet only a few hours after post-operative recuperation.
Candidates For This Surgery
Patients with common forms of spinal problems make up a significant portion of the patient population that might benefit from endoscopic spine surgery. However, surgical procedures on the spine are not generally the first course of therapy. Before undergoing any form of spine surgery, including ESS, it is typically suggested that non-surgical treatment options such as spinal injections and physical therapy, for example, be explored first.
Recovery Process
The recovery from endoscopic spine surgery is relatively easier than the average spine surgery. The majority of patients will be able to return to work within one to two weeks following the surgery; however, patients who have professions that are physically demanding or labor-type tasks should take more time off of work. After a period of six weeks, patients are normally cleared to go back to work.
Learn More About Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is a breakthrough advancement in technology and technique. In the hands of an expert spine surgeon, this extreme version of minimally invasive surgery may help chronic back and neck pain sufferers. To learn more about this type of surgery contact our clinic at (954) 223-5483 or submit a contact form and one of our medical experts will reach out to you shortly.