Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Brain and Spine Surgery

Abstract

Aim and objective Endoscopy is minimally invasive technique of using a tube with a lens and a light source to look into a body cavity through a small opening. Neurosurgeons originally used endoscopes several decades ago; however, use was limited. Recently, due to technological improvements and a drive towards less invasive surgical procedures, the use of endoscopy has expanded in neurosurgery. Endoscopes may be introduced into the brain through small holes (as little as 3 millimeters) drilled in the skull. Tiny instruments can then be placed through the same hole as the endoscope to treat hydrocephalus, drain cysts, and biopsy tumors. Spinal surgery may also be performed endoscopically in certain cases. Procedures may be performed under local or general anesthesia and patients often go home in as little as one day. Materials and Method We site examples of two adult patients who underwent minimal invasive procedures in form of transnasal transsphenoidal pituitary surgery and endoscopic lumbar disc decompression and one two year old child who underwent endoscopic intraventricular cyst fenestration and decompression with good results. Conclusion: Endoscopic brain and spine surgery is a cost effective treatment in above conditions. It can be done through a small opening with less tissue damage reducing the duration of hospital stay. It can be performed safely in both children and adults with least morbidity.