What is endoscopic spine surgery?

Endoscopic spine surgery is an innovative surgical technique that enables a surgeon to visualize area of compression around the spine and nerve roots without necessitating a large incision. This procedure involves the insertion of a slender tube equipped with a miniature camera, which is introduced into the body through a minor incision. This camera projects high-resolution images onto a screen, providing Dr. Pennicooke with a comprehensive view of spinal structures.

Endoscopic spine surgery is heralded for being minimally invasive, offering a viable solution to treat a diverse range of spinal conditions. Dr. Brenton Pennicooke, spinal endoscopy surgeon, routinely employs this specialized surgical approach to benefit patients in St. Louis, St. Peters, Creve Coeur, and other neighboring cities within St. Louis and St. Charles Counties in Missouri. His expert application of this technique effectively addresses a variety of spinal conditions, bolstering patient health and improving quality of life.

How is endoscopy different from arthroscopy?

The two types of surgical imaging techniques are similar in that they both use a scope, or camera to see inside the body. The difference is where the camera is used in the body and the type of surgical treatment needed. For instance, an arthroscope is used to visualize the joints within the body. Similarly, a laparoscope would be used to perform a surgical treatment in the abdomen or pelvis. An endoscope is used in spinal surgery but can also be used in other surgeries to treat problems in the intestines, stomach or esophagus. The word “scope” means the physician is using a specialized camera to see inside the body.

Why would I want endoscopic spine surgery instead of traditional surgery?

Doctors have found that using the least invasive types of surgery offer their patients less risk for infection, quicker healing times, less bleeding, and an overall better outcome. Patients suffering from painful conditions of the spine should ask about the least invasive surgical options before undergoing treatment.

What spinal conditions can be treated with endoscopy?

There are a number of spinal conditions that Dr. Pennicooke treats successfully with an endoscope. These include:

How is endoscopic spine surgery done?

Dr. Pennicooke would first obtain a diagnosis through careful imaging, physical examination and evaluation of patient history. Once non-surgical treatments (including physical therapy) have been exhausted or unsuccessful, surgical treatment is considered.

Endoscopic spine surgery is done under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. It can also be performed awake with less anesthesia for select patients. Depending on the area of the spine being treated, the patient is positioned, and the area is prepared. A small incision is made for the endoscope to enter the patient and the images are relayed onto a screen for Dr. Pennicooke to easily see inside the patient. Small, specialized instruments are also inserted through other small incisions and the surgery is completed without having to “open up” the patient using a large incision.  Once the surgery is completed, the instrumentation is removed and the small incisions are sutured closed (or often closed using surgical tape or steri-strips.)  The area is protected and post-operative instructions are given, based on the surgical procedure performed.

Spinal Endoscopy Surgeon

A spinal endoscopy is a surgical treatment that is minimally invasive and is used to treat a great number of spinal conditions. If you have a spinal condition that has not responded to physical therapy or other conservative treatments, it may be time to talk to a spinal endoscopy surgeon.  Doctor Brenton Pennicooke provides diagnosis as well as expert spinal endoscopy surgery for patients in Saint Louis, Creve Coeur, and surrounding cities in St. Louis County, Missouri who may benefit from this specialized type of surgery. Contact Dr. Pennicooke’s team today!