Endoscopic Foraminotomy
When the nerves in the spine are compressed, they can radiate pain in the limbs. Arm and leg pain are often due to spinal nerve compression that’s caused by bulging discs, bone spurs, scar tissue or ligament pressure. When conservative treatments are ineffective at treating spinal nerve compression, surgery may be required. At Medici Spine & Pain, we offer minimally-invasive endoscopic foraminotomy to give our patients relief from chronic pain.
Endoscopic foraminotomy is performed through a dime-sized incision to access the affected area of the spine. The goal is to enlarge the canal in the spine that encompasses the nerves to relieve pressure that can cause radiating pain. A surgical tube is placed through the small incision, guided by imaging to access the area requiring repair. Surgeons utilize x-ray fluoroscopy and a small camera that is inserted through the tubing to perform the needed repairs to relieve nerve pressure. Bone spurs, disc material or excess ligament growth can be removed using surgical tools through the endoscopic tubing. Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed with just a few stitches.
Minimally-Invasive Surgery for Spinal Nerve Compression
Most endoscopic foraminotomy procedures are done in the cervical or lumbar area of the spine. Cervical spinal nerve compression can affect the arms while lumbar spine nerve compression can affect the legs. Some of the conditions causing spinal nerve compression that can be treated with endoscopic foraminotomy include:
- Degenerative spine disease
- Bone spurs
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Sciatica
- Spinal stenosis
- Foraminal stenosis
Endoscopic foraminotomy is an effective option for relieving chronic pain caused by spinal nerve compression. If you have been living with chronic pain that is the result of spinal nerve compression and want a better quality of life, come see us at Medici Spine & Pain. We offer conservative treatments for spinal disorders, as well as minimally-invasive surgery to give you pain relief.
