Arthroscopic decompression is a minimally invasive surgical technique utilized to provide relief from spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine. It utilizes cutting edge micro-tools to remove herniated material from the disc, which is impinging on the spinal nerves and spinal cord. While not the right procedure for every patient suffering from lower back pain, this surgery offers reduced recovery times, immediate relief from pain and less trauma to the muscles and spine than traditional surgeries. To learn more about arthroscopic decompression or other spinal surgery options, contact Dr. Chetan Patel at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health for a full consultation. Call Call407-303-5452 for an appointment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Arthroscopic Decompression?
As mentioned, arthroscopic decompression is not a good fit for every patient. However, it does offer benefits for a wide range of situations, including patients who may not have been viable candidates for spinal decompression through traditional surgery because of weight considerations. Certain conditions do preclude arthroscopic surgery, though, including bone spurs, spinal infections, spinal tumors and vertebral fractures.
What Does Minimally Invasive Surgery Offer?
Dr. Chetan Patel performs arthroscopic decompression utilizing the latest in micro surgical tools. These include mini-calipers and cutters, as well as lasers. The procedure itself requires nothing more than a 2-mm incision in the disc and a needle puncture in the skin, which will be covered with a small bandage after the surgery. The limited trauma to the skin and spine through this procedure is one of the most significant benefits.
Other benefits of this type of procedure include the fact that it is performed as an outpatient surgery, which means that patients need not worry about spending time in a hospital. Finally, there is minimal scarring around the spinal nerves, which can create problems later with traditional spine surgeries. Finally, patients will be able to begin exercising the day after surgery and will enjoy lower costs (for those not covered by insurance).
What Does It Do?
Arthroscopic decompression is a procedure designed to eliminate the compression within the spinal canal created by a herniated disc pressing on the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Over time, this compression can result in pain and disability, including difficulty walking and potentially even bowel control.
The surgeon will insert a tiny needle into the space where the herniated disc is located. Next, using minute cutters, the herniated material of the disc will be removed and vacuumed out. Only the herniated portion of the disc is removed, leaving the body’s natural disc in place and eliminating the need for disc replacement or spinal fusion. A laser is then used for trimming and disc shrinkage, ensuring that there is no further pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. Finally, the surgeon removes the tools and uses a Band-Aid-sized bandage to close the wound.
To find out more about whether you are a good candidate for arthroscopic decompression or to discuss other spine surgery options, contact Dr. Chetan Patel. Call AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health at Call407-303-5452.