Overview

A Lumbar Discoscopic Discectomy is a minimally-invasive, outpatient surgery that relieves nerve pain caused by herniated discs. It is performed through a small tubular device under local anesthesia.

Guide Wire Inserted

The surgeon uses a fluoroscope (video x-ray machine) to find the correct route to the injured disc.  The surgeon then inserts a guide wire into the disc.

Dilating Tube Inserted

A dilating tube is slid over the guide wire, pushing tissue and nerve roots aside. Additional anesthesia is used to numb painful tissue along the path.

Working Sleeve Positioned

The surgery will be performed through a single working sleeve.  This is slid over the dilating tube down to the herniated disc. The surgeon then removes the guide wire and dilating tube.

Endoscope Inserted

The surgeon uses an endoscope containing a light and a small camera.  A video monitor displays the  camera’s view.  This allows the surgeon to visualize the herniation, guide the surgical tools, perform the procedure, and inspect the results.

Disc Portions Removed

The surgeon uses surgical instruments to remove the parts of the disc pressing on the spinal nerves.

Disc Wall Treated

To keep the disc contents inside the disc, the damaged disc wall is treated with a laser or a radiofrequency probe (RFA). The surgeon inspects the vertebra and nerves to confirm successful decompression.

End of Procedure

The instruments, endocope, and working sleeve are removed.  The insertion area is bandaged.  Recovery is quick and with minimal scarring. The patient is sent home that same day and is usually able to return to normal activities within a few weeks.