Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Advertisement or Game Changer?

Endoscopic spine surgery is a rapidly developing technique. Initially used for diskectomies, endoscopic spine surgery is now considered for bony decompressions and fusions. Endoscopic spine surgery uses one or two small incisions so a camera can be inserted for visualization under high magnification while a working window is provided through the camera apparatus or through a separate incision. The suggested benefits of endoscopic spine surgery include less muscle trauma, decreased need for anesthesia, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery. The typical complications associated with spinal surgery such as bleeding, infection, nerve injury, and durotomy still exist. Although the disadvantages may have historical claims, recent literature suggests endoscopic spine surgery may outperform traditional techniques for certain pathologies. However, the learning curve of endoscopic spine surgery may present challenges with adoption by practicing spinal surgeons. The outcomes of appropriately applied endoscopic techniques provide support that endoscopic spine surgery has the potential to revolutionize spine surgery.