Endoscopy

What is Spinal Endoscopy?

Spinal endoscopy is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat various problems of the spine. It involves the use of an endoscope, a thin instrument equipped with a camera and a light source, to visualize the inside of the spine and perform minimally invasive surgical interventions. 

 

Spinal endoscopy is often used to treat issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, and other spinal conditions. It has the advantage of reducing tissue trauma, bleeding, and postoperative pain compared to conventional surgery, while providing the surgeon with better visualization of the area of interest. However, the feasibility of this procedure depends on the specific nature of the problem being treated and the surgeon’s expertis

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Spinal endoscopy offers several advantages over traditional surgical approaches for treating spinal conditions. Here are some of the benefits of spinal endoscopy: 

Minimally invasive

Spinal endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it requires small skin incisions instead of a large one. This reduces tissue trauma, bleeding, and scarring, generally allowing for a faster recovery.

Less postoperative pain

Due to the small size of the incisions and reduced damage to surrounding tissues, patients tend to experience less pain after spinal endoscopy compared to conventional surgery.

Shorter hospital stay

Patients undergoing spinal endoscopy often need less hospital time and may even benefit from outpatient procedures, allowing them to return home on the same day as the intervention.

Faster recovery

In general, patients recover more quickly after spinal endoscopy. They can often resume their normal activities sooner than if they had undergone conventional surgery.

Fewer risks of complications

Since spinal endoscopy reduces surgical trauma, patients have a lower risk of complications such as postoperative infections or excessive bleeding.

Enhanced visualization

The endoscope provides direct visualization of the area of interest, allowing the surgeon to see and precisely treat the affected region.

Targeted treatment

Spinal endoscopy enables the surgeon to perform specific procedures, such as the removal of herniated discs or nerve decompression, with great precision.

Less scarring

Due to the smaller incisions, the scars left by spinal endoscopy are usually smaller and less visible than those from open surgeries.

It is important to note that spinal endoscopy is not suitable for all spinal conditions, and the decision to choose this method will depend on the specific nature of the problem and the surgeon’s opinion. However, for many patients, it offers a gentler and less invasive option for treating their spinal issues. 

News from the Central-West Region: Spinal Endoscopy at the Jewish General Hospital. A First in Quebec.

The Jewish General Hospital of the CIUSSS of the Center-West of the Island of Montreal continues to innovate in the field of surgery. This time, it is Dr. Jeff Golan, a neurosurgeon, who is treating some of his patients with spinal endoscopy. This is a first in Quebec. 

Manufacturing companies RiwoSpine

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Manufacturing companies Elliquence

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Fully Endoscopic Spinal Treatment for Herniated Discs and Spinal Canal Stenosis

RIWOspine is a pioneer in fully endoscopic spinal treatment, offering innovative solutions for the benefit of patients. 

FAQs

Spinal endoscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to diagnose and treat spinal issues using an endoscope equipped with a camera.

Primarily, it is used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, and disc infections.

During spinal endoscopy, an endoscope is inserted through small skin incisions to visualize the inside of the spine and perform minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Patients tend to experience less pain after spinal endoscopy compared to conventional surgery due to smaller incisions and reduced tissue trauma.

The benefits include faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, less postoperative pain, smaller scars, and fewer risks of complications.

Recovery varies depending on the specific procedure and the patient, but it is generally quicker than recovery after conventional surgery, ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Although the risks are generally reduced compared to open surgery, they can include infections, bleeding, allergic reactions to anesthesia, and complications related to the procedure itself.

It is essential to seek out a surgeon who is experienced and specialized in spinal endoscopy. Ask for references, check their background, and discuss your options with your doctor.

No, spinal endoscopy may not be appropriate for all spinal conditions. Your surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate based on your specific case.

Yes, there are alternatives, including open spine surgery, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and other non-surgical treatments. The choice will depend on the nature of your problem and your overall health.