Lumbar Discoscopic Discectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery technique that uses an endoscope to relieve pain caused by herniated discs pressing on nerve roots. An endoscope is a thin, long, and flexible viewing instrument with its own special lighting that allows me to see into the spinal discs.
The disc endoscope is inserted through a ¼ inch incision that will act as a ‘keyhole‘ for the entire procedure. The maneuverability of the endoscope allows the muscle and tissue to be dilated rather than being cut. This leads to less tissue trauma, less post-operative pain, quicker recovery times, earlier rehabilitation and an avoidance of general anesthesia.
The visualization gained by using the endoscope allows for elimination of the cause of the pain by removing only the portion of the disc’s core that is pressing on the nerve roots.
The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting. No hospitalization is needed. The surgery lasts for approximately 30 minutes and usually results in the patient resuming light activities on the evening of the surgery.