Lumbar Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery uses tiny incisions and incorporates new technologies such as camera visualization, fluid pumps, and specialized tools to improve outcomes. This technique offers significant advantages such as less soft tissue damage and normal structural damage, reduced blood loss, less epidural scarring, reduced hospital stay and earlier functional recovery. It is especially useful where a very rapid recovery is paramount. Endoscopic spine surgery is now used to treat many degenerative spine diseases, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other pathologies.
Lumbar endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat various conditions affecting the lumbar spine. This technique uses an endoscope, a small tube with a camera and light, allowing Dr. Colman to operate through very small incisions. This approach reduces tissue damage, blood loss, and recovery time compared to traditional open spine surgery. Many studies have demonstrated the safety of endoscopic spine surgery in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.
Lumbar endoscopic spine surgery is recommended for patients who suffer from specific conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. Conditions that may warrant this surgery include:
- Herniated discs: Removal of disc material that is pressing on spinal nerves.
- Degenerative disc disease: Removal or repair of damaged disc material to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Spinal stenosis: Widening of the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Foraminal stenosis: Enlargement of the foraminal openings to relieve nerve compression.
- Facet joint cysts: Removal of cysts that compress spinal nerves.
- Revision spine surgery: Revision surgery for any of the above conditions.
- Fusion and stabilization techniques are also emerging
Many conditions are not appropriate for endoscopic surgery. These may include fractures, deformity, spinal instability, tumors, infections, or situations where stenosis is extensive. Dr. Colman will carefully consider which technique is best for your individual situation.
A single small incision (usually less than one inch) is made near the affected area of the spine. The endoscope is inserted through the incision, providing a visual guide for Dr. Colman. Using specialized instruments, Dr. Colman performs the necessary procedure, such as removing herniated disc material, enlarging the spinal canal, or stabilizing vertebrae. The instruments and endoscope are removed, and the incision is closed with sutures or adhesive strips.
Studies report that patients who received endoscopic lumbar spine surgery have less back pain postoperatively and a shorter length of hospital stay than with other types of spine surgery. Thus, recovery from lumbar endoscopic spine surgery is generally quicker than from traditional open surgery.
- Many patients can go home the same day or after a brief hospital stay.
- Minimal tissue disruption leads to less postoperative pain and discomfort.
- Patients typically return to work and daily activities sooner, usually within a few weeks.
- Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the back and improve mobility.
The success rate of lumbar endoscopic spine surgery varies depending on the specific condition treated and the patient’s overall health. However, studies have shown high success rates, often comparable to or exceeding those of traditional open surgery.
Success is typically measured by:
- Pain Relief: Significant reduction or elimination of pain.
- Improved Function: Restoration of normal movement and activity levels.
- Patient Satisfaction: High levels of satisfaction due to quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort.
Lumbar endoscopic spine surgery is a valuable option for patients with specific spinal conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments. The minimally invasive nature offers several benefits, including reduced pain, faster recovery, and high success rates. As with any surgical procedure, a thorough evaluation by a qualified spine specialist is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Contact Dr. Matthew Colman at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. He specializes in degenerative spine conditions, spine trauma, spinal deformities, and spine oncology. His patients find him to be a kind, caring, and thorough surgeon, who has a wonderful bedside manner, and is knowledgeable and trustworthy. They note that he takes time to listen to his patients, explains conditions well, and answers their questions.
Dr. Colman’s care philosophy is that surgery should be a last resort. He feels strongly that conservative treatments including physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications and injections should be pursued to their fullest extent before entertaining surgery. However, certain orthopedic conditions require surgical intervention for the best possible outcomes. Contact him at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, Illinois to schedule a consultation to receive the correct diagnosis and all your treatment options today.
At a Glance
Dr. Matthew Colman
- Internationally recognized expertise and thought leadership for a diverse range of spinal problems
- Patient-specific and humanistic approach which uses the latest technology and techniques
- Team centered approach prioritizes availability, communication, and support
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