Endoscopic spine surgery is a less invasive procedure that uses a tube-like device that is linked with a camera, light,and passage as a means for surgical apparatus to pass through. The main benefits of this type of surgery include: less blood loss, smaller cuts, less trauma to muscles, less scarring, quicker recovery and a shorter hospital stay. As such endoscopic spinal surgery is a good example of the kind of less invasive surgical option we have become renowned for at the London Spine Unit.

There are four types of endoscopic spinal surgery interventions:

Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

The procedure is done when a disc herniation (protruding or displaced) presses against nerve roots thus causing pain. The surgeon creates a small cut along the midline of the back. The surgeon then moves the nerve roots to one side and extracts the protruding disc material through endoscopic guidance.

Endoscopic Foraminotomy

A bone overgrowth may either press against or pinch the nerve roots causing pain and inflammation in the area. Endoscopic Foraminotomy corrects the pinching of these roots. The procedure relies on visuals to avoid any disruption to other nearby spine structures. With a clear view of the affected area our specialist doctors can then enlarge the space around the nerve root to relieve pressure.

Endoscopic Facet Rhizotomy

Sometimes chronic back pain is caused by a nerve root terminating pain signals. Endoscopic Facet Rhizotomy is considered when the pain is persistent, and a long-lasting solution to it has not been found. The surgeon locates the pain-causing nerve roots and burns them entirely with the laser hence terminating pain. The benefit of laser surgery is that it accurately pinpoints and breaks down the target area. The body is then able to absorb any resulting debris produced because it is effectively broken down.

Endoscopic Lumbar Laminotomy

This procedure addresses pain in the lower back caused by compressed nerve roots. Just as with other types of endoscopic surgery, the surgeon removes the materials exerting pressure on the nerves thereby promoting recovery.

Our intention is always to put the interest of our patients first. Therefore, we work hard to avoid surgery as the main route to correcting problems in the spine and spinal cord, because although surgery may appear to bring quick relief in some instances it also comes with a number of further complications that are often overlooked. This includes anything from increased risk of infection to seemingly ineffective results because tissues, bones and other materials around the affected area have adapted or changed, thereby potentially causing secondary problems of their own.

Whilst no surgeon can ever promise a hundred percent accuracy of an outcome what we can and always strive for at our world-class clinic is the best outcome based on each patient’s own unique situation. We guarantee high quality, premium healthcare, cutting edge, minimally invasive surgical solutions and all-round medical standards in excellence, which means you can relax in our hands.