MIT

Endoscopic discectomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove herniated disc material that is causing pain in the lower back and legs (lumbar), mid back (thoracic), or neck and arms (cervical).
Endoscopic discectomy is the least invasive and most effective surgical technique for treating spinal disc herniation patients. With endoscopic spine surgery, surgeons do not need to remove bones and muscles in order to remove herniated discs. This kind of procedure has the following advantages:

• Minimally Invasive
• Short recovery
• High Success rate
• Preservation of spinal mobility
• Local Anesthesia
• Minimal blood loss
• Same-day surgery with no hospitalization (outpatient procedure)
• Small incision and minimal scar tissue formation

Complications include:

• Disc Bulge
• Herniated Disc
• Disc Tear
• Radiculitis
• Radiculopathy
• Brachial Neuritis
• Cervical Disc Bulge
• Cervical Disc Tear
• Cervical Herniated Disc

Although both interlaminar and transforaminal approach are equally efficient techniques interlaminar approach is preferred in L5S1 herniations (larger interlminar window) while transforaminal approach is preferred in L4L5 herniations (no iliac crest obstruction).

Learning objectives:

Review the surgical anatomy of posterior and lateral approaches to the lumbar spine

Discuss the indications, results and complications for endoscopic techniques and other minimally invasive approaches

Prepare different strategies to avoid and manage surgery complications