Treating Chronic Lower Back Pain With Lumbar Endoscopic Surgery Procedures
When is Surgery Recommended for Chronic Lower Back Pain?
There are some rare instances when surgery to decompress a nerve that may lead to permanent damage may be required immediately. Other than those rare circumstances it is recommended that conservative treatments be thoroughly exhausted before attempted surgery for lower back pain.
Depending on the condition that is causing your pain, you may be able to find relief through endoscopic procedures such as an endoscopic discectomy, an endoscopic Foraminotomy, or an endoscopic rhizotomy. Other less invasive procedures such as an XLIF fusion, an SI joint fusion, or a total disc replacement procedure are other forms of surgery that may be considered.
Endoscopic Discectomy Information
An endoscopic discectomy is performed to treat a herniated disc that is compressing a nerve or causing inflammation in surrounding tissue. The goal of the surgery is to gain access to the damage disc through the least invasive methods available, remove the damaged material, and cauterize the disc preventing further leakage.
A small incision in the posterior of the patient is all that is usually required. Through this incision a tube is placed with which the surgeon will gain access to the damaged disc. Using an endoscope the surgeon will view the procedure in real time on a special monitor, making it easier to visualize the area that is being worked on. With minimal tissue and muscle damage recovery from this procedure is quick, usually 1 – 2 weeks.
Endoscopic Foraminotomy Information
An endoscopic Foraminotomy is performed to treat pain caused by spinal bone spurs, disc herniations, scar tissue, or excessive ligament development. Debris that is located in the foramen compressing exiting nerve roots is removed alleviating the patient’s pain and discomfort.
A small incision is made in the patient and a small tube us inserted to the neuroforamen. Through this tube the surgeon will both visualize the damage as well as operate the surgical tools needed to repair the damage. A small camera called an endoscope is used to relay real time imagery to a display screen that help accurately direct the surgeon. Once the damage has been corrected and the foramen has been enlarged, the tube is removed from the patient and the incision is closed with one or two stitches. With minimal tissue and muscle damage recovery from this procedure is quick, usually 1 – 2 weeks.
Endoscopic Facet Rhizotomy Information
Endoscopic Facet Rhizotomy is a true form of minimally invasive spine surgery that is performed to deaden nerves causing pain and symptoms. The rhizotomy is performed under x-ray guidance to drastically lessen the chances of damaging surrounding muscles or soft tissue.
