Endoscopic Discectomy
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery designed to alleviate pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in its tougher exterior, causing pain, numbness, or weakness along the path of the affected nerves. Endoscopic discectomy uses an advanced approach to remove portions of the herniated disc without the need for large incisions or extensive tissue damage, making it a preferred option over traditional open surgery.
The procedure involves inserting a small tube, or endoscope, through a tiny incision near the affected area of the spine. With the assistance of a camera at the end of the tube, the surgeon can visualize the spine and herniated disc in real-time on a monitor. Specialized instruments are then guided through the endoscope to remove the protruding disc material and relieve the pressure on the nerves. This minimally invasive technique allows for greater precision, reduced damage to surrounding tissues, and quicker recovery times.
Endoscopic discectomy is commonly recommended for patients who experience persistent back pain, sciatica, or neurological symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections. Patients with lumbar or cervical disc herniations that compress spinal nerves are often good candidates for this procedure, provided that other conditions like spinal instability or severe spinal stenosis are not present.
Procedure Duration
The procedure typically lasts between 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the disc herniation and the location on the spine. Since endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive surgery, it is often performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. The exact duration of the surgery may vary based on the level of the spine being treated and the patient’s specific anatomy.
Endoscopic discectomy is generally performed under local anesthesia with sedation, allowing the patient to remain awake but comfortable during the surgery. This type of anesthesia reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia and contributes to quicker recovery times. Throughout the surgery, real-time imaging and guidance from the endoscope enable the surgeon to precisely navigate the spine and remove the herniated disc material without disturbing surrounding structures.
Recovery from endoscopic discectomy is typically faster and less painful than recovery from traditional open spine surgery. Patients are encouraged to walk and engage in light activities soon after the procedure. While there may be some discomfort during the initial recovery period, most patients experience significant pain relief within days and can return to normal activities within 2 to 6 weeks, although this timeline may vary depending on individual healing rates and physical demands.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive Approach: Small incisions and less tissue damage compared to open surgery result in faster healing and less scarring.
- Quicker Recovery Time: Many patients are able to return to light activities within a few days and experience less postoperative pain.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Reduced risk of infection, blood loss, and damage to muscles or ligaments, thanks to the minimally invasive technique.
- Same-Day Discharge: The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
- Effective Pain Relief: Targeted removal of the herniated disc material can lead to immediate and lasting relief from nerve compression symptoms.
Potential Destinations for Endoscopic Discectomy
- Germany
Known for its advanced medical technology and highly skilled spine surgeons, Germany is a top destination for endoscopic spine surgeries. Many hospitals in Germany have a strong focus on minimally invasive techniques and offer high-quality care standards that attract patients worldwide.
- South Korea
South Korea has emerged as a hub for medical tourism, particularly in spine surgeries like endoscopic discectomy. The country's state-of-the-art facilities, combined with cutting-edge surgical techniques and comprehensive care packages, make it an attractive option for patients seeking quick recovery.
- Turkey
With its rapidly growing medical tourism sector, Turkey has positioned itself as a leader in spine surgeries. The country's hospitals are equipped with the latest technology, and many spine surgeons have extensive experience in minimally invasive procedures like endoscopic discectomy.
- India
India is a popular destination for medical tourists due to its affordable healthcare costs and high-quality medical services. Endoscopic discectomy is widely available in many reputable hospitals, and the cost of the procedure is significantly lower compared to Western countries, making it a cost-effective option for patients without compromising on quality.
- Thailand
Thailand is known for its hospitality and excellence in medical tourism, offering world-class healthcare services at competitive prices. With internationally accredited hospitals and experienced surgeons, Thailand provides an attractive option for patients looking for quality endoscopic discectomy with a pleasant recovery experience.
Risks & Considerations
- Recurrence of Disc Herniation: There is a risk that the disc may re-herniate in the future, requiring additional treatment or surgery.
- Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the surgical site or within the spine, requiring prompt medical attention.
- Nerve Damage: Since the procedure involves working close to spinal nerves, there is a small risk of nerve injury, which may lead to temporary or permanent neurological symptoms.
- Incomplete Pain Relief: Some patients may not achieve complete pain relief following the surgery and might require further treatment for other underlying conditions.
- Anesthesia Risks: Although local anesthesia is typically used, there are potential risks and side effects, such as allergic reactions or respiratory issues, depending on the patient’s overall health.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When seeking an endoscopic discectomy, selecting a qualified surgeon and reputable hospital is crucial to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize risks. Look for a spine surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques, as their skill level directly impacts the success of the procedure. It is also essential to choose a surgeon who is board-certified in spine surgery and has a track record of performing endoscopic discectomies with positive patient outcomes.
Hospitals with a strong reputation for orthopedic or spinal care, state-of-the-art facilities, and adherence to international standards of medical care should be prioritized. Researching patient reviews, seeking recommendations, and verifying hospital accreditations are essential steps in making an informed decision. Ensure that the facility offers comprehensive postoperative care and support, as this is crucial for a smooth recovery process.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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