Endoscopic Discectomy: A Modern, Minimally Invasive Solution for Lumbar Disc Prolapse

By Dr. Umesh Srikantha, Additional Director – Neurosurgery & Clinical lead Advance Spine Centre, Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road

If you’ve been diagnosed with a lumbar disc prolapse and advised surgery, it’s natural to feel concerned. However, advancements in spine surgery now offer safer, faster, and far less invasive options than traditional procedures. One such breakthrough technique is Endoscopic Discectomy, now widely performed at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road.

This blog explains what endoscopic discectomy is, how it works, and why it has become one of the most preferred treatments for slipped discs.

What is a Lumbar Disc Prolapse?

A lumbar disc prolapse—commonly called a slipped disc—occurs when the soft cushioning disc between the spinal bones bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves.
This can cause:

• Lower back pain
• Shooting leg pain (sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling
• Difficulty walking or sitting

When conservative methods like physiotherapy or medication fail, surgery may be recommended.

Endoscopic Discectomy: A Modern Approach

A discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve.
Among the different types, Endoscopic Discectomy is considered one of the most advanced and least invasive options.

How It Works

Using a tiny 8 mm endoscope, the surgeon removes the protruded disc material through an incision that is only 1 cm in size.
To put it simply:
✔ The equipment is extremely slim
✔ The incision is very small
✔ The recovery is significantly faster

Key Advantages of Endoscopic Spine Surgery

1. Minimal Tissue Damage

Hardly any bone or ligament is removed.
This helps preserve the normal spinal structure and stability.

2. Very Small Incision

Just 1 cm, compared to the 1–2-inch incision seen in traditional surgery.
Less pain, less blood loss, and minimal scarring.

3. Can Be Done Under Local Anesthesia

This is especially helpful for elderly patients or those with medical conditions that make general anesthesia risky.

4. Daycare Procedure

Most patients can go home the same day.

5. Faster Recovery

Patients typically return to work in 5–7 days, depending on the nature of their job.

Why Choose Endoscopic Spine Surgery at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road?

Fortis offers:

• Experienced spine specialists trained in advanced minimally invasive techniques
• State-of-the-art endoscopic surgical systems
• Multidisciplinary care including neurosurgery, orthopedics, and rehabilitation
• Faster recovery pathways focused on early mobility and pain-free return to activities