Endoscopic Discectomy Specialist

What is endoscopic discectomy?

Endoscopic discectomy is one of the least invasive and most highly effective treatments for herniated discs. This procedure involves inserting a small camera through a tube so Dr. Rovner can view your spine without making a large incision. 

Endoscopic discectomy uses only a local anesthetic, which reduces the risk of general anesthesia complications. During the procedure, Dr. Rovner inserts a thin metal tube into your spine. He uses the tube to access your spine, which means he doesn’t need to cut through muscles.

After he removes the damaged disc, Dr. Rovner treats the area with a laser to vaporize abnormal tissues and kill damaged nerves, which relieves pain. The entire procedure takes only 30 minutes so you can go home in 2-3 hours. 

What are the advantages of endoscopic discectomy?

One of the advantages of endoscopic discectomy is that this procedure doesn’t involve removing bones and muscles to treat the herniated disc. Other benefits of endoscopic discectomy include:

• Smaller incision
• Minimal scarring
• Only requires a local anesthetic
• Little to no hospital stay

Dr. Rovner is committed to using the most advanced and least invasive surgical techniques so you can recover as quickly and easily as possible. 

What conditions does endoscopic discectomy treat?

Dr. Rovner may recommend endoscopic discectomy if you have a disc problem in your neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine). Some of the issues he treats with endoscopic discectomy include:

• Bulging or herniated disc
• Radiculopathy
• Radiculitis
• Disc tear

As a conservative surgeon, Dr. Rovner makes sure to explore every available nonsurgical treatment first. When surgery is necessary, he uses minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain, blood loss, and recovery time. 

Who is a good candidate for an endoscopic discectomy?

Not every patient is a good candidate for endoscopic discectomy. This procedure may be right for you if you have one or more of the following:

• A herniated disc shown on a diagnostic test
• Significant pain or weakness in your leg or foot
• Symptoms that don’t improve with physical therapy
• Leg pain that’s worse than your back pain

The best way to find out if you’re a good candidate for endoscopic discectomy is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rovner at New York Spine and Sports Surgery. Call or book an appointment online today.