The Ways in Which Endoscopic Technology Has Revolutionized Surgery

Endoscopic technology is an exciting advancement in medical technology that has allowed surgeons and medical doctors to perform a litany of procedures that historically required much more involved surgical approaches. In many cases, endoscopic procedures, which are minimally invasive in nature, can be completed in outpatient clinics as opposed to impersonal hospitals, and come with far less risk for post-operative complications, making them a compelling alternative. Yet, this approach also has its own limitations and isn’t right for every individual and condition, so it is exceedingly important that you do your due diligence and make sure you find the right surgery for you.

Endoscopic surgery is unique in that it requires a very small incision in the body to complete. Consider endoscopic spine procedure as an example. Historically, if a patient suffered from symptoms from a herniated disc or another degenerative spine condition and all conservative treatments failed to deliver the results that they required, the only real option was spinal fusion surgery. This open-spine surgery requires a large incision to be made in the back or neck, and the soft tissue and musculature that supports the spinal column has to be cut in order for the surgeon to gain access to the problem area in the spine. The issue with this approach is that the patient must then spend several weeks or even months recovering from the collateral damage to the tissue to regain full strength. Furthermore, with major surgeries such as this, there is an increased chance for post-operative complications to arise, such as infection, hemorrhaging, excessive scar tissue formation, and even failed back surgery syndrome.

With an endoscopic approach, on the other hand, only a very small incision (usually less than an inch long) is needed and rather than cutting muscles and ligaments, tissue is gently pushed aside as telescoping tubes are inserted into the back or neck. Using state-of-the-art camera and laser technology the highly trained surgeon can then make the adjustments that are needed to alleviate the patient’s pain and finish the procedure – often without even requiring the use of general anesthesia. What’s more, because these operations are so minimally invasive they typically require a much less arduous rehabilitation period than their invasive counterparts.

Of course, endoscopic spine surgery is only one example of how this compelling technology is being used effectively in modern medicine. For years, this similar procedure has been used with great success in knee surgeries. Endoscopic technology has also been used by healthcare providers to review just about everything else you can imagine in the body, ranging from the GI tract to the ears, nose, and throat.

With all that said, it is important that you research your options and find the right operation for your condition. Endoscopic procedures utilize exciting technology and in some instances are a compelling option, but they aren’t right for every case. Speak with your doctor to learn more about all of your options.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to surgery tips. http://www.ispot.tv/ad/7LZp/laser-spine-institute-out-patient-surgeries.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to surgery tips. http://www.ispot.tv/ad/7LZp/laser-spine-institute-out-patient-surgeries.

Author Bio: Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to surgery tips. http://www.ispot.tv/ad/7LZp/laser-spine-institute-out-patient-surgeries.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: surgery tips, surgery research, suergery recovery, surgery alternatives

Leave a Reply