Endoscopic Decompression

Endoscopic decompression with laser and Endoscopic discectomy and decompression with laser

Endoscopic surgery has proved of value not only for discectomy but also for many other back problems. With this minimally invasive technique all kinds of herniated disks may be removed in a very tissue-preserving way. It may help also with chronic back problems that result from disk protrusions or tears.

Also more and more spinal stenoses that cause unilateral symptoms may be relieved endoscopically.

How is surgery carried out?

Under local anesthesia and x-ray control, the narrowed osseous opening through which, exit the spinal nerves (foraminal stenosis) is enlarged with special reamers and drills. Already this procedure will help to decompress the pinched nerve. Then an optical endoscope with several minute working channels will be carefully forwarded up to the stenosis. Under sight-control bulging remainders (capsule, ligamentum flavum and bone) are removed with a shaver or shrill. The foramen is hence enlarged until the nerve is freed.

What postoperative care is necessary?

There will be a follow-up examination the day after the intervention. Additionally, a physiotherapist will explain to you an individually targeted rehabilitation program. During the first two weeks you will have to put on a specially fitted plastic corset, which sustains your back and will soon allow for resuming daily activities. It is recommended to start a professionally supervised physiotherapy programme after one week. After 6 weeks, strengthening exercises for your back and abdominal muscles should be started. At the same time, you might be able to gradually resume your sports activities.

When may I resume my sports activities?

After about three weeks you should be able to go swimming or to ride your bicycle. Your may resume your usual sports activities after 6 weeks.

When can I go back to work?

Between one and two weeks, you can resume simple office work and slight physical work. You shouldn’t do any hard physical work during the first 6 weeks and then only gradually increase.

All advantages at a glance:

• The intervention can be carried out under local anesthesia – no general anesthesia is required!
• As there is almost no tissue damage, the intervention is much less cumbersome and the risk of complications is very low
• No instability, as the structures that stabilize the spine – the ligaments and joints – remain unhurt. This is a main difference to microscopic surgery technique.
• Less wound healing pain as well as higher stability, as back muscles are not torn or cut
• Little infection risk, as access is through a small cutaneous incision (5mm).
• Less scarring in the region of the nerve roots!
• Already two hours after the intervention you will be able to walk without pain.
• Short hospital stay: You can go back home the day after the intervention and after a few more days you may resume your usual daily activities.

Short recovery times: after one or two weeks you can go back to work, after 6 weeks you may resume your usual sports activities. Little scarring.