What Is Lumbar Disc Herniation?
A lumbar disc herniation occurs when the intervertebral disc between the vertebrae in the lower back wears down and shifts outward from its normal position. This displacement can compress the surrounding sciatic nerve roots, causing low back pain, sciatica or leg weakness.
In lumbar disc herniation surgery, the herniated portion of the disc is removed, thereby relieving pressure on the nerve root and decompressing it.
What Is the Full Endoscopic Method?
Full endoscopic lumbar disc herniation surgery involves removing the herniated disc material by making only an 8 mm incision in the skin and using an endoscopic system fitted with a camera at its tip. For this reason, it is also known as "Scarless Surgery." The endoscope technology incorporates small HD cameras at its working end.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
- If there is insufficient recovery despite treatment lasting 6 weeks or more
- If weakness has developed in the leg or foot muscles
- If bladder or bowel function is affected
- If quality of life is significantly impaired due to pain
Surgical Methods
Open Surgery
The traditional method, first performed in 1909. The skin and muscles are cut between 5–10 cm. With laminectomy, the posterior parts of the spinal vertebrae are removed. Recovery time is long and the risk of post-operative complications is high.
Microsurgery
Developed in 1977, this method involves a 2–3 cm skin incision. A surgical microscope provides improved visualisation. From the 1990s onwards, it was applied as the "gold standard" approach.
Full Endoscopic Method
The most advanced method available today. The herniated disc is removed under camera guidance through a single 8 mm entry point. Patients can walk and return home just a few hours after surgery.
Advantages of the Closed Method
Healthy Tissue Preserved
Surgery is performed without damaging surrounding tissues
Home the Same Day
You can leave hospital 4–5 hours after the operation
Minimal Blood Loss
Significantly less blood loss compared with open surgery
Low Infection Risk
The small incision significantly reduces the risk of infection
Rapid Recovery
Return to sedentary work within 2–3 days
Cosmetic Result
Only an 8 mm scar-free, barely visible incision
Surgical Process
The procedure takes an average of 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Local or general anaesthesia may be administered. After anaesthesia, the patient is positioned, an 8 mm incision is made, and the herniated disc material is removed under camera guidance.
Recovery Process
- You can walk and go up and down stairs 2 hours after surgery
- You can return home 4–5 hours after surgery
- Those in sedentary or desk-based occupations can typically return to work within 2–3 days to one week
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 4–6 weeks