Minimally Invasive Spine Endoscopy: A New Era in Back Pain Treatment at GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut

Back pain is one of the most common health issues affecting people of all ages. Whether it’s due to a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, or aging-related degeneration, spine-related conditions have become increasingly prevalent. At GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut, we are proud to offer the latest in spinal care through minimally invasive spine endoscopy, a revolutionary technique that ensures quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and better outcomes.

What Is Spine Endoscopy?

Spine endoscopy is a modern, minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat spinal problems such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and chronic back pain. Unlike traditional open spine surgery, which requires large incisions and significant muscle dissection, endoscopic spine surgery involves using a small tubular system and a high-definition camera to access the spine through a tiny incision—usually less than 1 cm.

This technique allows surgeons to visualize and treat the problem area with precision while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

Why Choose Spine Endoscopy?

Spine endoscopy offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods:

Minimally invasive: Small incisions reduce blood loss, muscle damage, and risk of infection.
Faster recovery: Most patients return to daily activities within a few days.
Less pain: Reduced trauma leads to lower post-operative pain.
Outpatient procedure: In many cases, patients can go home the same day.
Minimal scarring: Cosmetic benefits due to tiny incisions.

At GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut, our advanced operating theaters and experienced spinal surgeons make us one of the leading centers in Kerala for spine endoscopy.

Conditions Treated with Spine Endoscopy

Endoscopic spine surgery is highly effective in treating various spinal disorders, including:

1. Herniated Disc

One of the most common reasons for endoscopic spine surgery. The surgeon removes the herniated portion of the disc that is pressing on spinal nerves.

2. Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal that causes pain and numbness. Endoscopy helps decompress the affected nerves.

3. Sciatica

Often caused by disc herniation, sciatica can be relieved by removing the pressure on the sciatic nerve through endoscopic discectomy.

4. Degenerative Disc Disease

When discs deteriorate over time, endoscopy can help relieve the pain by removing damaged tissue and stabilizing the spine.

5. Facet Joint Syndrome

Endoscopy is used to ablate (burn) pain-generating nerves in the facet joints of the spine.

The Endoscopic Procedure: Step-by-Step

At GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut, we follow a patient-centered approach to ensure a safe and effective outcome. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how spine endoscopy is performed:

Diagnosis and Imaging: A detailed consultation and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans are performed to locate the exact issue.
Pre-Surgery Assessment: Basic lab tests and physical fitness are evaluated.
Anesthesia: Typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, avoiding the risks of general anesthesia.
Insertion of Endoscope: A tiny incision is made through which the endoscope is inserted to reach the spinal area.
Surgical Correction: The surgeon visualizes the spine on a monitor and removes or repairs the damaged tissue.
Closure and Recovery: The incision is closed with a single stitch or adhesive strip.

Who Is a Candidate for Spine Endoscopy?

Spine endoscopy is ideal for patients who:

Have chronic back or leg pain not responding to medication or physical therapy.
Are diagnosed with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.
Prefer a minimally invasive option with quicker recovery.
Want to avoid the risks associated with traditional open surgery.

However, not all patients are candidates. Severe spinal instability, infection, or certain types of spinal deformities may still require traditional surgery. A consultation with our spine specialists at GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut will determine the best course of treatment.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

One of the key advantages of spine endoscopy is the quick and smooth recovery process. Most patients experience:

Walking within a few hours after surgery.
Discharge on the same or next day.
Return to work within 1–2 weeks (depending on occupation).
Long-term pain relief with proper rehabilitation and care.

Our physiotherapy and rehabilitation team ensures every patient receives personalized guidance after surgery to maximize outcomes and prevent recurrence.

Why Choose GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut?

As a center of excellence in orthopedics and spine care, GMC Ortho Hospital, Calicut stands out for the following reasons:

Expert Team: Board-certified orthopedic surgeons with specialization in minimally invasive spine procedures.
Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art endoscopic equipment and image guidance systems.
Patient-Centered Approach: Individualized treatment plans and compassionate care.
Comprehensive Services: From diagnosis to rehabilitation, all services under one roof.
Proven Track Record: High patient satisfaction and success rates in spine surgery.