Endoscopic Spine Surgery

UT Southwestern’s Spine Center experts offer minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery to treat a variety of conditions, including disc herniations and spinal stenosis. Endoscopic spine surgery is an innovative outpatient procedure (no hospital stay) and offers a number of benefits for patients, including minimal incisions and faster recovery.

UT Southwestern is home to some of the world’s leading experts on endoscopic and minimally invasive spine surgery. We teach these procedures to other surgeons and have written textbooks on endoscopic spine surgery.

What Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?

Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves a small incision (less than 1 inch) through which we insert an endoscope (tiny camera) and specialized instruments that allow us to create space for damaged or compressed nerves and alleviate back and leg pain from disc herniations or spinal stenosis.

At UT Southwestern’s Spine Center, we recommend endoscopic surgery when nonsurgical treatments such as interventional spine care haven’t worked. Our highly trained team of multidisciplinary specialists (surgeons, physiatrists, and pain management physicians) creates a customized plan based on each patient’s condition. Our team will also help patients develop long-term treatment plans involving nutrition and exercise to help them stay healthy and active.

What Conditions Does Endoscopic Spine Surgery Treat?

Endoscopic spine surgery can be effective in treating a variety of spinal conditions, including:

• Spinal stenosis
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica
• Radiculopathy

What Should Patients Expect During Endoscopic Spine Surgery?

Before surgery

Patients are encouraged to exercise regularly and be active to optimize their body’s ability to speed recovery. All nonessential medications and supplements should be stopped before surgery. Our team will meet with the patient before the procedure to discuss what to expect and answer any questions.

During surgery

The surgeon will make a small incision (less than 1 inch) in the patient’s back – depending on where the problem is located – and insert an endoscope, a thin tube with a camera at the end. Small, highly specialized instruments are inserted through the scope to perform the procedure. After the procedure, the incision is closed and covered with a small bandage.

After surgery

Patients can leave the hospital once they recover from anesthesia and are awake and independent (typically within a few hours). In some cases – when multiple levels are addressed or patients are traveling from longer distances for the procedure – they may stay in the hospital overnight for observation. Patients are able to be active and return to their daily lives but are asked to avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or bending for a few weeks after surgery.

We work closely with our patients to plan their recovery, return to work and activities, and we will help design a physical therapy program to optimize their return to peak performance.