Advantages of Endoscopic Methods for Treatment of Pinched Nerves

by. Dr. dr. Eko Agus Subagio, Sp. BS (K) Spine
09 January 2023
Advantages of Endoscopic Methods for Treatment of Pinched Nerves

Surabaya Spine Clinic Siloam applies treatment using modern medical technology. For 15 years he has handled many cases of nerves in the spine either due to degenerative disease, infection, tumor or deformity. One of the most common cases is a pinched nerve, people know it as HNP (Herniated Nucleus Pulposis) which can be treated with spinal endoscopy. This tool allows a minimally invasive procedure and does not require open surgery on the spine. Apart from the relatively high success rate, endoscopy is considered safer. For information other than endoscopy, other methods that are still classified as minimally invasive techniques are microscopy and tubes. But we focus on the discussion this time about endoscopy.

Endoscopy is

Endoscope is basically an important instrument for several medical examinations. This visual aid is inserted into the patient's organs, allowing the doctor to explore the condition of certain organs without having to make a large surgical wound.

In practice there are several types of endoscopy, this is adjusted to the goals to be achieved. Meanwhile, endoscopy intended to treat pinched nerve problems in the spine is called spine endoscopy.

A pinched nerve can be caused by muscle tissue, bone, cartilage, or tendons putting pressure on a certain point. Other factors that trigger are injuries, obesity, poor posture, age etc.

Most pinched nerves can get better on their own with the help of drug therapy and physiotherapy. Most complaints occur in the neck and lower back. Only a small proportion of cases require further treatment and even action.

Luckily, there are currently available procedures that allow patients to only get minimal surgical wounds and recover quickly. There is no longer a need for major operations that cause longer tissue damage. This is beneficial for both the patient and the doctor.

Current spinal endoscopy is divided into uniportal and biportal endoscopy methods. Here are the similarities and differences.

Uniportal and Biportal endoscopy

The similarity of these two techniques is that both are classified as minimally invasive spine surgery, a spinal cord surgery that minimizes entry into the patient's body. This tool, which is a sophisticated camera connected to a 4-dimensional HD monitor, allows doctors to see more clearly and completely, thereby reducing the risk of nerve injury due to surgery.

Whereas the difference in Uniportal Spine Endoscopic, is found in only one surgical incision, while BESS or Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery Biportal uses two points of incision to insert an endoscope to free the pinched nerve. The approach of these two methods will also be influenced by the condition of the nerve clamp in which position. Selection of the right method can maximize results.

The benefits of the spinal endoscopy method

This method can be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's condition.

The incision, which is only 8 mm to 10 mm, allows the patient to experience minimal tissue damage, minimal blood loss and a faster recovery. The process, which only takes 45 minutes, still requires good observation before and after the action.

There are no special restrictions after surgery and you can carry out your activities as before. However, caution should be exercised in lifting heavy weights and avoiding fast, jerky movements for at least 1 month of evaluation.

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