Endoscopic spine surgery

  

Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to address spinal issues. Unlike traditional spine surgeries that require large incisions, muscle dissection, and significant tissue removal, endoscopic spine surgery involves minimal tissue disruption. In the past, spinal surgeries necessitated large incisions, muscle dissection, and significant removal of unnecessary muscle tissue.

However, with endoscopic procedures, the focus is on targeting the precise area of the patient's spinal condition. As a result, there is less muscle damage, reduced blood loss, minimal post-operative pain, and shorter hospital stays. Patients can typically return to their normal activities much sooner compared to traditional surgery.
 

The surgeries can be divided into 2 groups:

1. Non-fusion Surgery: This type of surgery is used in cases where patients have conditions such as spinal stenosis or nerve compression due to bone spurs.

2. Fusion Surgery: Fusion surgery is necessary when the bones are unstable. In conditions like spondylolisthesis or spinal misalignment, fusion surgery is required to stabilize the bones. This type of surgery can be performed through various approaches, including anterior, lateral, or posterior approaches.

The surgical procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Positioning: The patient is positioned either lying face down or in a sitting position, depending on the surgical approach.

2. Incision: A small incision, approximately 1 cm in size, is made. A tube with a high-powered camera is inserted into the incision to visualize the inside of the spine, including the nerves and supporting structures.

3. Surgical Intervention: Another instrument is inserted through the tube to perform the necessary procedures inside the spine. The duration of the procedure typically does not exceed 1 hour for endoscopic spine surgery.

4. Fusion Surgery (if applicable): If fusion surgery is needed, screws are inserted into the spine, usually starting with four screws to stabilize the spine. The surgeon then widens the spinal canal, removes any degenerated discs or bone spurs, and may insert artificial or patient bone grafts to replace damaged or removed bone. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.

These steps may vary depending on the specific surgical technique used and the patient's individual condition.

Preoperative preparations include:

1. Smoking Cessation: It's advisable to quit smoking at least 2 weeks to 1 month before surgery to improve surgical outcomes.

2. Management of Pre-existing Conditions: For patients with chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, it's important to manage and stabilize these conditions before surgery to ensure safety during anesthesia and optimal surgical outcomes.

After the surgery, self-care procedures are similar to those after general surgery. However, with minimally invasive procedures, patients typically experience less pain and recover more quickly.