RECENT ADVANCES OF ENDOSCOPIC DISCECTOMY OF THE CERVICAL AND DORSAL SPINE

Abstract

Endoscopic discectomy is defined as the surgical removal of an intervertebral disc with an endoscope. The history of development of the endoscopic spine from its primitive form, till the formation of the contemporary endoscope. Instrumentation and equipment for endoscopic discectomy are modified verswns of spinal tools used for open surgery. Trauma or physical stress of varying degrees, lead to degeneration of the intervertebral disc and of the• surrounding bony elements which cause discs herniation. Radiculopathy and/or myelopathy are the cardinal symptoms of disc prolapse, which can be accompanied by bowel and bladder incontinence. Spinal imaging IS an integral component preoperative in the assessment of patients with spinal disease, intraoperative for localization of the anatomical landmarks, and postoperative be detect residual disc or adhesion.