Minimally-Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy in Bridgewater, NJ

One of the procedures that experienced neurosurgeons at Bridgewater NJ Spine & Orthopedic may recommend to patients with minor vertebrae disc problems is a minimally-invasive endoscopic discectomy. But what does it entail, and when should you consider undergoing this ultra-advanced spine surgery? 

Our surgeons can help you properly diagnose your neck or back pain problems and will also offer expert medical advice on the best treatment plan for effective results. Get in touch with us today in order to get the care and support you deserve.

Understanding Minimally-Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy

Minimally-invasive endoscopic discectomy typically involves a surgeon making about a quarter of an inch incision on the skin surface until they reach the affected vertebrae. A small tube is then inserted through the tiny cut, through which an endoscope goes in. 

The camera helps the surgeon view the affected vertebrae on the monitor and remove the materials compressing the nerve roots with a small surgical tool inserted through the same tube. Alternatively, lasers may be deployed to vaporize the disc parts blocking the nerve roots.

Who Qualifies for Minimally-Invasive Endoscopic Surgery?

Of course, not everyone with a spine problem can be treated using endoscopic discectomy. This minimally-invasive spine surgery is reserved mainly for people with neck or back pain because of a herniated disc.

A herniated disc is a condition that primarily affects some people as they age. It is where the soft materials in the disc’s center push through the disc’s harder exterior casing. As this happens, the nearby nerve roots may be irritated or compressed, causing pain in the affected segment of the spine. 

For example, if a disc in the lumbar spine becomes herniated, it may lead to lower back pain. By utilizing minimally-invasive endoscopic discectomy, our qualified and board-certified spine surgeons may be able to remove some parts of the herniated disc compressing the nerve roots, which may bring the needed pain relief for the patient.

Other spine conditions our experienced neurosurgeons may recommend endoscopic discectomy as a treatment option for may include:

• Bulging disc
• Radiculopathy
• Disc tear
• Brachial neuritis
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis
• Lower back arthritis

However, getting diagnosed with any of the above conditions doesn’t automatically qualify you as a good candidate for minimally-invasive endoscopic discectomy in Bridgewater, NJ.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Minimally-Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy?

First, spine specialists will use conservative measures to treat your pain for some time, usually several months. These may include pain medications, physical therapy, or injections. Only when these methods fail to alleviate your symptoms will endoscopic discectomy be considered. And even then, your surgeon will review your specific case, including the extent of disc damage, your medical history, risk factors, and the effectiveness of this procedure to cure your pain, before making the final decision.

If you or a loved one is considering this type of spine surgery, you can use our free Candidacy Verification tool to determine whether you’re the right candidate.

Benefits of Minimally-Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy in Bridgewater, NJ

The main advantage of this minimally-invasive surgery by NJ Spine & Orthopedic is how fast patients recover compared to traditional open surgery methods. This is because only a quarter of an inch incision is made during the procedure, which means less blood loss and trauma to the surrounding tissues. In fact, most people can return to their normal routine and work without any significant restriction within a few weeks.

Other benefits of the less invasive endoscopic discectomy include:

• A shorter hospital stay, as it is an outpatient procedure
• Less scarring, both internally and externally
• It maintains the normal mobility and working of the spine, as only a tiny part of the affected disc is removed
• Less risk of injuring other tissues or nerves due to its high precision
• Reduced postoperative pain and need for medication
• Minimal risk of surgical site infection
• An excellent alternative to spinal fusion for some patients

If non-surgical treatment options have failed to cure your pain, endoscopic discectomy may be the right procedure. However, as with other surgeries, we only recommend it as the last resort because it involves some risks as well, although they are minimal.

Contact Experienced and Board-Certified Surgeons at NJ Spine & Orthopedic

Have you or a loved one been dealing with spinal cord-related pain? NJ Spine & Orthopedic has been helping patients with spinal problems like yours get much-need pain relief for over two decades now. During this time, we have sharpened our methods and dramatically and innovatively advanced our minimally-invasive spine surgery techniques to the cutting-edge technology we use today.

Our surgeons and spine specialists are experienced and board-certified and are continually refining surgical methods to give patients the best possible results. Call us at (866) 553-0612 or contact us online to speak with one of our spine specialists. Our Concierge Team can also help you streamline your treatment and appointments.