What are the main types of procedures for which Transforaminal Endoscopes are used?

Transforaminal endoscopes are primarily used in minimally invasive spinal procedures to diagnose and treat various spinal conditions. Here are the main types of procedures for which transforaminal endoscopes are commonly used:

Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): TLIF is a surgical procedure used to stabilize the spine and relieve symptoms of degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. Transforaminal endoscopes are used to access the intervertebral disc space through a small incision in the lower back, allowing for precise removal of damaged disc tissue and insertion of bone grafts or implants to promote fusion.

Lumbar Decompression Surgery: Transforaminal endoscopes are used in various types of lumbar decompression surgeries, such as laminectomy or laminotomy, to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. The endoscope allows surgeons to visualize and remove the compressive tissue through a minimally invasive approach, preserving surrounding healthy tissue and minimizing trauma to the spine.

Foraminal and Extraforaminal Disc Herniation Treatment: Transforaminal endoscopes are used to treat foraminal and extraforaminal disc herniations, which occur when the intervertebral disc bulges or ruptures and compresses the spinal nerves as they exit the spinal canal. The endoscope is inserted through the neural foramen, providing direct visualization and access to the herniated disc, which can then be removed or decompressed to relieve nerve compression and alleviate symptoms.

Facet Joint Treatment: Transforaminal endoscopes can be used to diagnose and treat facet joint pain, a common cause of lower back pain. The endoscope allows for direct visualization of the facet joints and surrounding structures, facilitating the placement of diagnostic injections, radiofrequency ablation, or minimally invasive fusion procedures to alleviate pain and restore function.

Epidural Steroid Injections: Transforaminal endoscopes are used to perform epidural steroid injections for the management of back pain and radicular symptoms associated with conditions such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or nerve root irritation. The endoscope provides real-time visualization of the epidural space, allowing for precise placement of steroid medication to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.