Endoscopic Discectomy
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Chronic back pain or radiculopathy stemming from bulging, protruding, or herniated discs may prompt consideration of modern microsurgery techniques. At NJ Spine and Orthopedics, our specialists often recommend minimally invasive procedures such as endoscopic discectomy, percutaneous endoscopic discectomy, or laser discectomy.
Understanding Endoscopic Discectomy
Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique employed to address issues related to muscle weakness, referred pain, or sensations like “pins and needles” radiating from spinal nerve roots to the extremities. Conditions such as a herniated cervical disc or wear-related disc compression against nerve roots can lead to discomfort and dysfunction if left untreated.
The Role of an Endoscope
In less-invasive procedures, surgeons utilize an endoscope—a long, hollow tube that allows manipulation of tiny instruments and provides a microscopic view of the surgical site. Typically ranging from 4mm to 13mm in size, the endoscope aids in locating the troublesome protruding disc. The surgeon inserts a needle directly into the disc’s membrane, reducing its nucleus volume with an instrument threaded through the needle. This process removes small tissue bits from within the disc, enabling the protrusion to recede and the disc to regain its original shape. The procedure alleviates pressure on nearby nerve roots or relieves spinal canal pressure, and generally takes less than 45 minutes, followed by a brief recovery period and a single follow-up appointment.
Opting for Laser Discectomy
Laser discectomy, utilizing laser technology in surgery for over two decades, is a minimally invasive approach facilitated by the beam of light emitted by the laser. This method is effective in shrinking and aiding the removal of a herniated disc’s portion, particularly when diagnosed as a soft herniated disc compressing a nerve. Under the expertise of an experienced spine surgeon, laser discectomy is considered a safe and effective means of repairing a damaged disc.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with herniated discs and are considering treatment options, our specialists at NJ Spine and Orthopedics are available for consultation. Contact us online, try our free Treatment Finder tool, or call (866) 272-9271 to explore the best solution for your condition.
Discover which treatment options are right for you with our Treatment Finder.
Choosing a minimally invasive approach over traditional open spinal surgery offers significant advantages, primarily the absence of collateral damage to muscles, nerves, and skin tissue. This results in faster and easier healing, reducing the risk of infection, numbness, and other undesirable aftereffects. Patients often experience immediate relief from this outpatient procedure.
Penn Spine and Orthopedic, with over 25 years of experience, is proficient in performing endoscopic discectomies as outpatient surgeries. With precise diagnoses and suitable patient selection, this technique boasts a remarkably high success rate. Some notable benefits associated with endoscopic discectomy include:
Conditions Treated by Endoscopic Discectomy:
Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy: Addresses bulging discs, herniated discs, disc tears, Radiculopathy, and Radiculitis.
Cervical Endoscopic Discectomy: Effective for cervical bulging discs, cervical herniated discs, cervical disc tears, and branchial neuritis.
Additional Advantages:
Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery that has the following advantages:
Take Advantage of Our Free MRI Evaluation:
Schedule a free MRI evaluation with one of our experienced spine surgeons at Penn Spine and Orthopedic. They will provide a personalized assessment over the phone to determine if you would benefit from endoscopic discectomy.
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Qualification for endoscopic discectomy involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure the procedure is suitable for the patient. Penn Spine and Orthopedics recommends exhaustively exploring conservative treatment options before considering minimally invasive surgery. If non-surgical treatments prove ineffective over several months or if pain worsens, a minimally invasive surgical approach becomes a logical next step.
Key Criteria for Eligibility:
Minimally Invasive Microsurgery:
With each surgical approach, Penn Spine and Orthopedics emphasizes minimal skin opening and removal of a small amount of inner tissue from a bulging disc. This approach provides relief with minimal discomfort and inconvenience, showcasing its potential for treating disc problems over the past 50 years.
Relief from Chronic Pain:
Following endoscopic discectomy, percutaneous discectomy, or laser discectomy, patients may need to refrain from violent flexing or heavy lifting for several weeks. However, most individuals can resume light activities and sedentary work after one to two weeks of rest. The slight discomfort from the procedure is outweighed by the significant relief from debilitating chronic pain.
Taking the Next Steps:
For those considering minimally invasive spinal surgery, Penn Spine and Orthopedics encourages contacting them at (855) 586-2615. Individuals can also use the free Candidacy Verification tool to assess their qualification before consulting with a spine specialist for personalized advice on their best options for lasting pain relief.
Determine your eligibility with our Candidacy Verification.
Penn Spine and Orthopedic is dedicated to delivering minimally invasive laser spine surgeries to eliminate the pain, discomfort, and dysfunction of numerous conditions of the neck and back.