Endoscopic spinal surgery has emerged as a groundbreaking medical procedure, revolutionizing the treatment of spinal issues. Commonly utilized for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other vertebral spine problems, this minimally invasive technique offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgeries.
Despite its promising outlook, the adoption of endoscopic spinal surgery faces challenges, primarily driven by the high cost associated with the devices and equipment required for the procedure. The global market, valued at US$ 784.8 million in 2024, is hindered by limited accessibility in regions with budget constraints and restrictive healthcare reimbursement policies.According to Fact.MR, the global Endoscopic Spinal Surgery Market is estimated to reach a value of US$ 1,732.5 million by 2034, with a projected expansion at a CAGR of 8.2% through the next decade.
Why the Endoscopy Spinarl surgery is rising? Which are the Advantages Over Traditional Approaches?
Traditional open surgery often involves considerable trauma to the body, requiring anesthesia, large incisions, extended operating times, muscle disruption, and prolonged recovery periods. In contrast, endoscopic surgery minimizes trauma to muscles and tissues, offering the following benefits:
- Reduced blood loss during the procedure.
- Minor scars and improved aesthetic outcomes due to smaller incisions.
- Lower risk of infection.
- No need for muscle cutting.
- Faster recovery and less rehabilitation.
- Reduced need for postoperative pain medications.
- Shorter hospital stays
Endoscopic spinal surgery serves as a minimally invasive alternative to conventional open microdiscectomy, effectively treating disc herniations, bulges, tears, or degeneration causing spinal stenosis – ordinary sources of lumbar pain and leg discomfort.This innovative surgical technique allows surgeons to use a high-definition endoscope through a small incision in the spine, identifying the source of back and leg pain and performing decompression, canal remodeling, or hernia extraction through a working channel.While endoscopic surgical approaches are common in other areas of the body, advancements in optics, tissue visualization, and spinal imaging have made endoscopic spinal surgery a viable surgical treatment for patients who were previously deemed unfit for conventional methods, such as older adults or those with obesity.
Comparing Endoscopic and Conventional Lumbar Surgery
Comparisons with conventional microdiscectomy highlight the advantages of endoscopic lumbar surgery:
- Reduced postoperative pain due to minimal tissue manipulation.
- Minimal need for anti-inflammatory and narcotic medications.
- Faster recovery, allowing an earlier return to work and normal activities.
- Shorter anesthesia time is particularly beneficial for older patients or those sensitive to anesthesia.
- Incisions less than 1cm, reducing infection risk and optimizing scarring.
- Minimal blood loss.
- Drastically reduced risk of cerebrospinal fluid fistula.
Common side effects of spinal surgery are generally mild and self-resolving within a few days. These may include pain, swelling, and bruising at the incision site.In endoscopic lumbar discectomy, a 5-8 mm incision is made, allowing the surgeon to access the vertebral disc through the neural foramen or interlaminar space, depending on the hernia’s location. An endoscope with continuous tissue irrigation provides visualization, enabling the surgeon to perform decompression maneuvers or hernia extraction.As with any surgical procedure, endoscopic surgery carries potential risks and complications, but these are significantly lower compared to conventional open surgery.
Types of Endoscopic Procedures
- Biportal Endoscopic Spinal Surgery: Biportal endoscopy stands out for its ability to access the spinal canal through two 1 cm incisions. This specialized procedure utilizes a 4 mm diameter camera (endoscope) and the necessary surgical instruments. The biportal approach enhances visibility and maneuverability, specifically beneficial in complex cases.
- Traditional (Uniportal) Endoscopy: Uniportal endoscopy, on the other hand, employs a single portal for the intervention. While less invasive, it remains effective and is choosed in less complex cases.
Leading Companies in Endoscopic Spinal Surgery
Numerous companies play a pivotal role in advancing endoscopic spinal surgery, yet the primary leaders boasting an extensive array of products, diverse options, and comprehensive endoscopy systems include:
In conclusion, endoscopic spinal surgery represents a significant leap forward in the realm of minimally invasive procedures, providing patients with less trauma, quicker recovery, and enhanced outcomes. As technological advancements continue and awareness increases, the market for endoscopic spinal surgery is poised for continued growth, offering a promising future for patients seeking effective and efficient spinal treatments.
IMAGE: RIWOspine VERTEBRIS LUMBAR