A lumbar endoscopic laminectomy or discectomy may be recommended for patients who:

• Have a herniated lumbar disc or lumbar spinal stenosis causing nerve compression.

• Experience sciatica (leg pain), numbness, tingling, or weakness that interferes with daily activities.

• Have not improved with conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections over several weeks to months.

• Prefer a minimally invasive approach that allows smaller incisions, less muscle damage, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

• In urgent cases, develop progressive weakness or sudden changes in bladder or bowel control (which may require more immediate surgery).

Not all patients are suitable candidates for a lumbar endoscopic laminectomy or discectomy. Dr. B will review your condition and perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether an endoscopic approach is appropriate for you.

A lumbar endoscopic laminectomy or discectomy is performed through a very small incision in the lower back, typically less than a centimeter. Through this incision, Dr. B inserts a thin tube called an endoscope, which has a camera and light to provide a magnified view of the spine. Specialized surgical instruments are then utilized, either through the endoscope or a separate tiny incision, to reach the herniated disc or the area of spinal canal narrowing. Dr. B then carefully removes the portion of the bone or disc material that is compressing the nerves under a magnified view. Once the procedure is complete, the instruments and endoscope are removed, and the tiny incision is closed with a few stitches or surgical adhesive. This minimally invasive approach causes less muscle and tissue disruption, reduces blood loss, results in a smaller scar, and allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Most patients are able to return home the day of surgery,

The advantages of a lumbar endoscopic laminectomy or discectomy include:

• Minimally invasive: Performed through a very small incision, reducing tissue trauma.

• Less muscle damage: Preserves surrounding muscles compared to open surgery.

• Reduced blood loss during the procedure.

• Smaller scar due to the tiny incision.

• Shorter hospital stay – often done as an outpatient procedure.

• Faster recovery – patients can return to daily activities sooner.

• Lower postoperative pain and reduced need for narcotic pain medications.

• Precise visualization of the spine through the endoscope, allowing targeted removal of the problematic disc or bone.

Please refer to our Patient Education Booklet for detailed information.