Endoscopic Laser Spine

Endoscopic Laser Spine is a type of surgery that has been growing in popularity since the 1990s. This type of spinal surgery is much less invasive than traditional Open Back surgery. “Endoscopic “ refers to the use of an instrument, called an Endoscope, which is a long flexible tube which has both a light and camera attached. This tool has been widely utilized in many other types of surgery , such as cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), for some time now. The Endoscope is inserted into the body through a tiny incision and allows the surgeon to see inside the patient's body and perform surgery without a large incision and an open cavity. Endoscopic Laser Spine is a far less invasive technique.

Comparing Endoscopic Laser Spine

There are other advantages when comparing Endoscopic Laser Spine to Open Back surgery. With endoscopic surgery there isn't any cutting through back muscle and tissue. Instead an instrument , called a portal, is used to push any muscle aside and then act as a tunnel to guide the surgical instruments through to the surgical site. The absence of this cutting means that a patient will have far less bleeding than with traditional Open Back. When Endoscopic Laser Spine is completed the instruments are then withdrawn via the portal, then the portal itself is removed allowing the muscle to fall back into place.

Eliminating cutting through muscle

With Endoscopic Laser Spine eliminating the need to cut through muscle, it also allows for a much decreased recovery period. With Open Back surgery, one can expect many days of hospitalization followed by a long period of Physical therapy. It can be a year before the patient may resume all former activities when recovering from Open Back. With Endoscopic Laser Spine, There is little to no hospitalization, since many perform this as an outpatient procedure. Any post-op therapy is minimal, and may be completed as an outpatient, allowing one to be in the comfort of their own home.

Decreased Risk with Endoscopic Laser Spine

Risk to the patient is also decreased with Endoscopic Laser Spine because it does not require the use of general anesthesia as does Open Back. Instead, the patient is prepared for Endoscopic surgery using a local anesthetic in combination with an I.V. “twilight” sedation. This enables the surgeon to ask questions of the patient throughout related to pain and sensation, although the patient may recall little of this after the surgery. If you are considering back surgery, ask your doctor if Endoscopic Laser Spine is a viable option for you!