Disease Overview
The lower back or lumbar region is often the site of pain due to its high mobility and weight bearing. Spongy discs present between the vertebral bones helps cushion the spine during stress and movement. The intervertebral discs in the lumbar region may get damaged due to stress, causing them to herniate or rupture, and compress on adjacent spinal nerves. This can lead to lower back pain, as well as pain, weakness, and numbness in the lower legs.
What is Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy?
Lumbar endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to treat a herniated or ruptured disc and relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy Procedure
Lumbar endoscopic discectomy is performed under local anesthesia. With the help of imaging studies, your doctor identifies the affected disc and inserts a metal tube into the disc space. An endoscope, a lighted viewing tube with a camera, is introduced through the metal tube to enable your doctor to view enlarged live images on a monitor. Instruments are then introduced through the metal tube and the surgery performed under image guidance. The herniated or ruptured disc is removed and components placed to stabilize the spine.
Advantages of Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy
Lumbar endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that usually results in lower blood loss, less pain, minimal tissue damage, shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery.
Risks and Complications of Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy
Though complications are rare, lumbar endoscopic discectomy may be associated with prolonged pain, infection, bleeding, nerve injury and spinal fluid leakage.
