Endoscopic Spine Surgery: A Modern Solution for Back Pain, Slip Discs, and Lumbar Stenosis

by Dr. Gee Teak Sheng, Pantai Hospital Penang:

Introduction

Back pain, slip disc, and lumbar stenosis are common spinal conditions that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Traditionally, these issues often required open surgery, which involves longer recovery times. However, advancements in medical technology have introduced minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic spine surgery, offering patients a safer and effective alternative.

Understanding the common culprits of Back Pain 

1. Slip Disc (Herniated Disc): 
1. Occurs when the soft cushion between spinal bones ruptures or bulges, pressing on nerves.
2. Symptoms: back pain or sharp pain radiating to the leg (sciatica), numbness or weakness
3. Endoscopic discectomy allows for removal of herniated disc material with high precision, reducing nerve pressure and alleviating symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, and weakness.



2. Lumbar Stenosis: 
1. A narrowing of the spinal canal in the low back, often due to aging or arthritis.
2. symptoms : pain, cramping, or difficulty walking, especially over long distance (claudication) 
3. This condition involves narrowing of the Spinal Canal and nerves compression. Minimally invasive decompression via endoscopy can restore space within the spinal canal, relieving symptoms without the need for open surgery.

Left untreated, these conditions can severely impact mobility, ability to walk and quality of life.

Endoscopic Spine Surgery (ESS) : A Game Changer in Treatment.

Unlike traditional open spine surgery-which requires large incisions, muscle stripping, and leghty recovery, ESS is a cutting-edge procedure that uses small incisions and specialized instruments, including an endoscope—a thin, tube equipped with a camera—to access and treat spinal conditions. This technique allows for precise removal of herniated discs, decompression of stenotic areas, and other interventions with minimal damage to surrounding muscles & tissues.

Key Advantages of Endoscopic Spine Surgery Over Open Surgery

1. Minimally invasive 
• No large cuts or muscle damages, preserving spinal stability.
• Small incision 7-10 mm
2. Fast recovery
• Most ESS patients walk on the same day and return to normal activities in 1-4 weeks (vs 3-6 months with open surgery) 
3. Lower complications rates 
• Reduced risk of infection, blood loss and scarring.
4. High Precision
• Real time imaging ensures only the affected area is treated, sparing healthy tissue.
5. Suitable for High-Risk Patients
• Elderly or those with medical conditions can often undergo ESS safely. 
• tolerable - less post surgery pain means requiring less pain killers 

Is ESS Right for you ? 

ESS is recommended for patients with 

• Persistent pain despite conservative treatment (physiotherapy, pain killers or injections)
• MR/CT confirmed disc herniation or spinal stenosis 
• A desire to avoid major surgery and long recovery.

However , severe spinal instability or advanced deformities may still requires traditional surgery.

Safety & Success Rates

Studies show ESS has

• > 90% success rate for disc herniation
• < 2% Complication rates (Vs 5-10% in open surgery) 
• No need for spinal fusion in most cases, preserving natural movement. 

Raising Awareness For Better Back Health

Back pain is often dismissed as a normal part of aging, but timely intervention can prevent long term disability. 

Endoscopic Spine Surgery represents a leap forward in spinal care, offering hope for faster, safe relief.

If you or a loved one suffers from chronic back pain, consult a qualified spine specialist to explore treatment options. Early diagnosis and advanced technique like ESS can make all the difference. 

“I could not walk without pain for many months. After ESS i was back on my feet in days” - Mr Teh ‘s experience. 

“Endoscopic spine surgery, as performed by Dr. Gee Teak Sheng at Pantai Hospital Penang, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of common spinal conditions. 

Its minimally invasive nature ensures effective relief from back pain, slip disc, and lumbar stenosis with minimal discomfort and downtime. Patients seeking a safer and more efficient solution for their spinal issues are encouraged to consult with Dr. Gee Teak Sheng to explore this innovative treatment option.”