Full Endoscopic Spondylolisthesis Surgery

Name: Full Endoscopic Spondylolisthesis Surgery
Creator: Op. Dr. Tunc Koc
Published: 2024-01-15

Summary: Full endoscopic endoscopic spondylolisthesis surgery is performed without damaging muscles and under camera guidance. A personalised treatment plan is created based on the degree of slip and the patient's condition. Op. Dr. Tunc Koc, with experience of more than 3,500 endoscopic spine operations in Istanbul, is among the leading surgeons performing closed surgery for spondylolisthesis.

What Is Spondylolisthesis Surgery?

The primary method used in spondylolisthesis surgery is spinal fusion, which aims to correct the slip between two adjacent vertebrae and permanently fuse them together.

In this method, a bone graft is placed between the slipped vertebrae to facilitate fusion; the vertebrae are then stabilised with specialised implants and connecting rods. Op. Dr. Tunc Koc performs this procedure using the closed endoscopic method through small holes made in the skin.

Closed Spondylolisthesis Surgery — Op. Dr. Tunc Koc

▶

When Is Surgery Necessary?

If pain persists despite treatments such as medication, exercise and bracing
If muscle weakness or loss of sensation has developed
If there is an advanced-grade or unstable slip
If the posture and balance of the spine are disrupted
If bladder or bowel dysfunction has begun

Three Main Stages of Closed Surgery

1. Decompression

This is the removal of pressure from the neural tissue. A portion of the ligamentous and joint tissues is removed endoscopically to decompress the compressed nerve roots.

2. Fusion and Stabilisation

A bone graft is placed between the slipped vertebrae. Using the modern percutaneous spinal implant technique, implants are inserted through small 1–2 cm holes to stabilise the spine.

3. Pars Repair (If Required)

If there is a fracture in the pars region of the vertebra, the fracture ends are joined and fixed with small wires or screws.

Percutaneous Spinal Implant System

The most important innovation in closed spondylolisthesis surgery is the placement of modern spinal implants through the skin via holes smaller than one centimetre, without making a large incision. Thanks to this technique:

✓

Muscles Are Preserved

The procedure is completed without cutting the large muscles

✓

Minimal Bleeding

Far less blood loss compared with open surgery

✓

Rapid Discharge

Patients are generally discharged within 1–2 days

✓

Minimal Pain

Post-operative pain is minimised thanks to the small incisions

In endoscopic closed spondylolisthesis surgery, all steps — decompression, graft placement and insertion of spinal implants — can be performed using the closed method.

Recovery Process

With the closed method, patients can walk and be discharged within a few days. Full recovery takes an average of 4–6 months; meaningful improvement in activity levels and overall health is complete within one year. Avoid heavy lifting for at least three months following surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Full Endoscopic Spondylolisthesis Surgery

How is spondylolisthesis surgery performed?

It is performed with decompression and/or fusion stages depending on the degree of slip. With the closed method, spinal implants are placed through 1–2 cm holes in the skin; no large incision is required.

Are screws used in spondylolisthesis surgery?

In cases requiring fusion, a percutaneous spinal implant system can be used. This procedure is carried out using the closed, scarless method.

How long does recovery take after spondylolisthesis surgery?

With the closed method, patients can walk within a few days and return to daily life within 4–12 weeks. Full recovery takes an average of 6 months.

Does every case of spondylolisthesis require surgery?

No. Conservative treatments are applied for mild-grade slips. Surgery is considered in cases of progression, nerve compression or inadequate response to treatment.

Is closed spondylolisthesis surgery superior to open surgery?

With the closed method, muscles are preserved, bleeding is minimal, recovery is faster and infection risk is lower. It has clear advantages over open surgery.