Much to the delight of those dealing with back and neck pain in Florida’s panhandle, a new straw-sized endoscopic spine procedure is now available at the Orthopaedic Spine Institute of Northwest Florida (OSINWFL).
Endoscopic spine surgery is an advanced, cutting-edge procedure that provides patients with a quicker recovery time and less pain than traditional open-spine surgery methods. This minimally-invasive surgery reduces soft tissue damage and helps preserve spine mobility after the procedure. In select instances, spinal endoscopy can be performed using local anesthesia rather than general anesthesia, mitigating overall medical risks for older patients or those with pre-existing medical conditions that increase the rate of surgical complications.
Dr. Robert Huang, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon and medical director of OSINWFL, says bringing spinal endoscopy to the institute will ensure those dealing with neck and back pain won’t have to travel as far to receive the procedure.
“We’re excited to offer this new, state-of-the-art procedure to our patients here in Florida’s panhandle,” said Huang. “With OSINWFL now offering endoscopic spine surgery, residents in northwest Florida and the surrounding area can consider us for an ultramodern, minimally-invasive treatment option for chronic spine issues.”
Endoscopic spine surgery is typically performed with a small percutaneous stab incision – usually less than a centimeter – whereafter a cannula, or pencil-sized, tubular surgical tool, is inserted.
Next, a small endoscopic camera is inserted through the cannula to the targeted area of the spine. Throughout the procedure, the endoscopic camera provides live imagery of the operative site onto a monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the anatomy, directly. The physician then removes the herniated spinal disc material and any other offending structures, treating the area where the patient is having issues.
While recovery time largely depends on the patient’s spinal condition, overall health and occupation, most patients can expect to return to regular physical activity in as little as two weeks, according to Huang.
“Spinal endoscopy is available for many patients who have been diagnosed with common types of spinal disorders, including herniated discs and spinal stenosis,” said Dr. Huang. “Those considering endoscopic spine surgery should ask their primary care physician for a referral to the Orthopaedic Spine Institute to determine whether or not they would be a good candidate.”
For additional information on endoscopic spine surgery or other treatment options for chronic neck, back and leg pain can visit our Treatments page today.
