Everything You Need to Know About Endoscopic Discectomy Surgery
If you have been experiencing severe pain due to a herniated disc or lower back pain, undergoing an endoscopic discectomy can greatly relieve your pain. Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive and effective procedure where the herniated disc material that causes pain will be removed. The surgeon makes use of a camera to view your spine and it does not remove your bones, or muscles to perform the procedure.
If you would like to undergo an endoscopic discectomy, visit Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy today. He has helped several patients suffering from herniated discs and other conditions.
What Conditions Can be Treated with an Endoscopic Discectomy?
An endoscopic discectomy is effective at treating the following conditions:
- Herniated disc
- Bulging disc
- Sciatica
- Radiculitis
- Disc tear
- Degenerative disc diseases
- Bone spurs
- Spondylolisthesis
- Cervical disc bulge
- Cervical herniated disc
Am I Eligible to Undergo an Endoscopic Discectomy Surgery?
In general, a patient who has pain, and numbness in a nerve root that is distributed down to the leg, or arm, or chest, can undergo an endoscopic discectomy. If the surgeon determines that your pain is caused by a specific anatomic location using MRIs, etc., then you can have an endoscopic discectomy.
To determine if you can undergo an endoscopic discectomy procedure, the surgeon will also evaluate your medical history. He also asks you about your pre-existing health conditions. Before recommending this procedure, the doctor suggests conservative treatments to treat your condition. If the conservative methods do not help, then an endoscopic discectomy may be suggested. If you have any questions about the procedure, you can ask your surgeons and get an idea about the procedure.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Before performing the surgery, intravenous sedation is administered to make you feel comfortable during the procedure. Under sedation, a small incision is made at the herniated disc from the muscle tissues. Now, a dilator is inserted to keep the incision open. An endoscope with an HD camera is then inserted to let the surgeon view the herniated disc clearly. Then the surgeon will insert the required microscopic instruments from the endoscope to remove the herniated disc. Using X-ray fluoroscopy and a clear view, the surgeon removes the herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve structures. If there are any annular tears or bulging discs, the surgeon treats them using a laser.
Once the procedure is completed, the surgeon removes the metal tube and the incisions will be closed.
What Happens After an Endoscopic Discectomy?
After completing the procedure, you can go back home on the same day. The surgeon will give you instructions to be followed during your recovery. The instructions will help to protect your spine and ensure to have a healthy recovery.
You should avoid high-impact activities, repetitive tasks, and lifting for about 21 days after your surgery. The surgeon may also suggest to wear a back brace for your comfort. You should also walk for some time in a day to help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots.
You should also have a nutrition food that contains vitamins and proteins to promote the healing of tissues and wounds post-surgery. After 6 weeks of surgery, you should have an X-ray to check your spine alignment and healing at the incisions.
In most cases, patients can get back to their daily activities after one or two weeks of surgery. But if your job involves physically demanding work, then it takes up to 6 weeks to return to your work. You do not need any pain medications after six weeks of surgery.
Benefits of an Endoscopic Discectomy Procedure?
An endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure and it offers the following benefits:
- Shorter recovery
- Higher success rate
- No muscle or tissue tearing and it preserves spinal mobility
- Minimal incisions
- Conscious sedation and hence reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia
- No risk of scarring
- Reduced risk of blood loss
- Reduced pain during the procedure
- No spinal fusion is required
Want to Know About Endoscopic Discectomy Procedure? Schedule an Appointment with Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy Today
If you are willing to seek treatment for your spinal issues with an endoscopic discectomy procedure, speak to Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy today. He and his team are ready to help you find relief and get back on your feet at the earliest possible. We use the latest and most advanced technology to ensure the best possible outcomes. He begins by examining whether you are the right candidate to undergo the procedure. He also explains the benefits, and possible complications of the procedure. If you are ready, make an appointment with Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy.