What Is Endoscopic Nucleoplasty?
Camera-guided nucleoplasty is a next-generation disc herniation treatment that enters the centre of the disc under a 3mm HD camera to reach all pain sources with direct, real-time visualisation. With this non-surgical method, patients are discharged within a few hours.
Op. Dr. Tunc Koc is among the first surgeons in the world to perform camera-guided nucleoplasty and applies this technique as a pioneer in Turkey.
How Does It Differ from Standard Nucleoplasty?
Standard nucleoplasty methods (laser, ozone, radiofrequency) are applied only under fluoroscopy, without directly seeing inside the disc joint. With the camera-guided system, however, a 3mm slender camera enters directly to the centre of the disc and everything is monitored in crystal-clear HD on the screen.
Minimal Radiation
Very few X-ray images are taken; standard methods require 50–70 fluoroscopic images, whereas the camera-guided system dramatically reduces this number
Visual Control
Every movement is monitored on the HD screen — the margin for error approaches zero
Access to All Pain Sources
Detached disc fragments are removed and all pain foci are treated
Nerve Protection
Nerves, vessels and the spinal cord are protected under continuous live monitoring
How Is the Procedure Performed?
1. Local Anaesthesia
No general anaesthesia is administered. Only local anaesthesia is applied to the lumbar region. The patient remains awake throughout the procedure and feels no pain.
2. Minimal Entry
Only a single needle puncture of 3 mm in diameter is made. No incision or open surgery is performed.
3. Treatment Under Visual Control
With live monitoring on the HD screen, the centre of the disc is reached. Detached fragments pressing on the nerve are cleared and the disc is reduced in size with controlled energy.
4. Completion
No sutures are placed and no dressing is required. Depending on how many levels are treated, the procedure takes 30–60 minutes.
After the Procedure
- The patient is discharged walking 2 hours after the procedure
- Normal life and work can be resumed within 24 hours
- Light activities can begin immediately