Endoscopic Spine Surgery
At Asian Superspeciality Hospitals, we are committed to delivering world-class care for spinal conditions through advanced techniques such as Endoscopic Spine Surgery. Led by Dr. Bhupesh Patel, one of the top specialists in endoscopic surgery in India, our team provides personalized and effective treatment. Located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, we offer specialized care that attracts patients from across India and beyond.
How is Endoscopic Spine Surgery Different from Minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery?
Minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery (MIS) is a popular and standard approach in spine surgery that uses various techniques to treat spinal conditions with less damage to surrounding tissues. Among these techniques, Endoscopic Spine Surgery (ESS) stands out as the least invasive and highly effective option.
Here’s how Endoscopic Surgery differs from standard Minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery(MIS):
- Less Trauma to Muscles and Soft Tissues: While both ESS and MIS aim to minimize tissue damage, ESS goes a step further by avoiding the major stabilizing muscles of the lower back. This means less trauma to muscles and soft tissues, resulting in a faster and more comfortable recovery for patients.
- Smaller Incisions: The incision for ESS is typically about ¼ inch, much smaller than the 1-inch or larger incisions often used in MIS. Smaller incisions mean less scarring, less pain, and a quicker recovery time.
- Faster Procedure with Better Access: Endoscopic Spine Surgery is sometimes called “ultra-minimally invasive” because it is quicker to perform and offers the surgeon better access to the spinal nerves and discs. The endoscopic camera provides a clear and magnified view, allowing for precise treatment.
- No Need for General Anesthesia: Unlike most MIS procedures that require general anesthesia, ESS can often be performed with just local anesthesia. This reduces the risks associated with anesthesia and allows patients to recover faster. Most patients are able to go home within 2-3 hours after surgery.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: With smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, and quicker recovery times, ESS offers improved outcomes for patients. It is just as effective as the standard MIS microdiscectomy in relieving painful spine conditions but with added benefits of a more minimally invasive approach.
Advantages of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Spine Surgery offers numerous benefits that make it an increasingly popular choice for treating spinal conditions. Here are more advantages that set this procedure apart
Reduced Blood Loss
The minimally invasive nature of Endoscopic Spine Surgery means less trauma to surrounding tissues, leading to significantly reduced blood loss during the procedure. This minimizes the need for blood transfusions and reduces overall surgical risk.
Lower Risk of Infection
Smaller incisions reduce the surface area exposed to potential contaminants, lowering the risk of post-operative infections. This is particularly important for patients with compromised immune systems or those at higher risk of infection.
Outpatient Surgery Option
In many cases, Endospine Surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. This not only enhances patient comfort but also reduces hospital costs and the risk of hospital-acquired infections.
Preservation of Spinal Stability
Unlike traditional open spine surgery, which may involve removing large sections of bone, Endoscopic Spine Surgery preserves much of the spine’s natural structure. This helps maintain spinal stability and reduces the need for additional surgeries, such as spinal fusion.
Quicker Return to Work and Daily Activities
Due to the reduced trauma and faster healing associated with Endoscopic Spine Surgery, patients often return to work and their daily routines more quickly compared to those who undergo traditional spine surgery.
Improved Cosmetic Results
The small incisions used in Endospine Surgery result in minimal scarring, providing better cosmetic outcomes. This can be particularly important for patients concerned about the appearance of large scars after surgery.
Less Post-Operative Pain
Patients typically experience less pain after Endoscopic Spine Surgery due to the smaller incisions and minimal disruption of surrounding tissues. This often results in a reduced need for post-operative pain medications.
Tailored Treatment for Complex Cases
Endoscopic techniques allow for precise targeting of problematic areas within the spine, making it possible to treat complex conditions that may not be as effectively managed with traditional surgery.
Versatility in Treating Multiple Spinal Issues
Endoscopic Spine Surgery can be used to address a wide range of spinal conditions, from herniated discs and spinal stenosis to more complex issues like facet joint syndrome. This versatility makes it a valuable option for patients with multiple or recurring spinal problems.
What Happens During and After Endoscopic Spine Surgery at Asian Superspeciality Hospitals
During Surgery:
- Getting Ready for Surgery: Before the surgery begins, patients are given mild sedation through an IV to help them relax. They are comfortably positioned on the operating table. The surgeon then numbs the skin around the surgical area with a local anesthetic, ensuring that the patient feels no pain during the procedure.
- Reaching the Problem Area: With the help of a special X-ray called fluoroscopy, the surgeon carefully guides a thin needle and a wire to the affected spinal disc causing pain. A tiny incision, about ¼ inch, is made on the skin.
- Creating a Pathway for Surgery: A slim metal tube, roughly the size of a pencil, is gently inserted over the guidewire down to the spinal disc. This tube creates a pathway for the surgeon to work. Once the pathway is established, the guidewire and dilator are removed.
- Performing the Surgery: Through the tube, the surgeon inserts an endoscope—a small camera that gives a clear view inside the spine. Using specialized tools, the surgeon removes any problematic tissue, such as herniated discs or bone spurs, that may be pressing on the nerves and causing pain. Unlike some clinics that advertise “laser spine surgery,” our surgeons at Asian Superspeciality Hospitals use a combination of tools, including a laser and radiofrequency energy, to precisely target the problem area.
- Completing the Surgery: After freeing the spinal nerves from any pressure, the surgeon often administers a small dose of steroid medication directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and improve comfort after surgery. The instruments are then removed, and the small incision is closed with just one stitch and a tiny bandage.
After Surgery:
- Recovery Time: After the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery room where they are closely monitored for an hour or two to ensure they are stable and comfortable.
- Heading Home: Thanks to the minimally invasive nature of endoscopic spine surgery, most patients are able to go home the same day, often within just a few hours. Our medical team will provide clear instructions for care at home to support a smooth and quick recovery.
Best Spine Care,
Just a Click Away
Reach Out to Our Top Endoscopic Spine Surgeon for Advanced, Minimally Invasive Solutions. Let’s Get You Back to Living Pain-Free.