Endoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can relieve pain, discomfort, and the symptoms of some common conditions.
If carpal tunnel syndrome or chronic back pain is disrupting your work and daily life, minimally invasive endoscopic surgery offers an advanced solution with faster recovery times than traditional open procedures. At New York Bone & Joint Specialists, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons use cutting-edge endoscopic techniques to treat spine and wrist conditions with precision and minimal tissue damage.
Our multiple NYC locations provide convenient access to specialized endoscopic procedures that get busy New Yorkers back to their active lifestyles quickly and safely.
Understanding Endoscopic Surgery: The Minimally Invasive Advantage
Endoscopic surgery uses a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope equipped with a high-definition camera to visualize internal structures through incisions smaller than one centimeter. This revolutionary approach allows surgeons to perform precise repairs while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Key advantages of endoscopic procedures:
- Incisions less than 1 cm vs. 2-4 inches for open surgery
- Reduced tissue trauma and scarring
- Lower infection risk
- Faster healing and return to activities
- Outpatient procedure in most cases
- Less post-operative pain
At New York Bone & Joint Specialists, our fellowship-trained surgeons have performed hundreds of successful endoscopic procedures, combining advanced technology with proven surgical expertise.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Precision Treatment for Nerve Compression
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. For professionals who spend hours typing or using repetitive hand motions, this condition can significantly impact work performance and quality of life.
When Conservative Treatment Isn’t Enough
If you’ve tried splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or steroid injections without lasting relief, endoscopic carpal tunnel release may be the solution.
The Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Procedure
During this 15-20 minute outpatient procedure:
- A small incision (less than 1 cm) is made at the wrist
- The endoscope provides clear visualization of the carpal tunnel
- The transverse carpal ligament is precisely divided to relieve pressure
- The incision is closed with minimal suturing
Benefits over traditional open surgery:
- No palm incision required
- Faster return to work (2 weeks vs. 6-8 weeks)
- Minimal scarring
- Preserved grip strength
- Same-day discharge
Endoscopic Back Surgery: Revolutionary Spine Treatment
Endoscopic spine surgery represents one of the most significant advances in treating disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and other degenerative spine conditions. This technique allows surgeons to address complex spinal problems through tiny incisions with remarkable precision.
Common spine conditions that can be treated successfully with endoscopic back surgery include:
Herniated disc. A rupture of the fluid-filled disc cushioning each vertebra in the spine irritates a nerve.
Spinal stenosis. A narrowing of the spinal column puts pressure on the spinal nerves.
Facet joint syndrome. Also known as osteoarthritis, the condition affects the joints that lie behind each vertebra and allow you to bend and twist your back. The joints also limit and stabilize spinal motion, providing core stability for your body.
Sciatica. Some cases of sciatica, an inflammation of the sciatic nerve in the lower back, can be treated endoscopically.
Endoscopic spine surgery procedures:
Endoscopic discectomy. The damaged portion of the herniated disc is removed to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Endoscopic decompression. This procedure is typically reserved for spinal stenosis. Through a smaller incision, the surgeon receives a clear view of the spine and can remove any tissue compressing on the spinal nerves.
Endoscopic foraminotomy. The vertebrae of the spine consist of openings, called neural foramina, through which nerves from the spinal cord reach other parts of the body. During endoscopic foraminotomy, a small incision is made to allow surgical tools to enter and enlarge the opening and decompress the nerve or nerves.
Advantages over open spinal surgery:
- Smaller incisions, less than half an inch or 1 centimeter
- Less soft tissue damage
- Same-day surgery
- Reduced chance of light bleeding
- Lower risk of complications
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities
Endoscopic Surgery Recovery: What to Expect
Recovery times for endoscopic spinal or carpal tunnel syndrome surgery are generally briefer than with an open surgery. Because of the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, you can leave the same day as the surgery or, if needed, stay overnight at the hospital.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery Time
First week: Take care of the bandage, You’ll wear a splint, but you can gently move your fingers. Can return to desk work or light activities, but heavy lifting is not recommended for several more weeks.
One to two weeks. Will return for a follow-up with the surgeon to remove the bandages and stitches..
Two to four weeks. Return to most activities as symptoms improve. You can remove the splint and participate in physical therapy to increase range of motion in the hand and wrist.
Four to six weeks. Full recovery at this point, allowing you to resume all activities.
H3: Endoscopic Back Surgery Recovery Timeline
Depending upon the severity of the spinal condition, you may be discharged the same day or may need an overnight stay in the hospital.
- Day of Surgery: Same-day discharge in most cases
- 24-48 Hours: Encouraged walking and light movement
- 1-2 Weeks: Return to office work for desk jobs
- 4-6 Weeks: Gradual return to physical activities
- 8-12 Weeks: Full clearance for heavy lifting and strenuous work
In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended if the patient is experiencing significant pain after the surgery. We recommend that all patients check in with their surgeon two weeks after the procedure to monitor progress.
Candidates for Endoscopic Surgery: Are You a Good Fit?
Let’s review the reasons why endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery or endoscopic back surgery is the right treatment for you:
General criteria for carpal tunnel surgery candidates:
- Persistent tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the hand and wrists following non-surgical methods.
- Lifestyle and occupational factors, such as a job involving typing at a computer or using their hands extensively.
- Severe muscle atrophy and numbness in the fingers.
Back surgery candidates:
- Persistent muscle weakness affects daily functioning.
- Difficulty walking due to pain, weakness, or impaired mobility.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control which can be a sign of severe nerve compression.
Candidates should also be in good overall health as evidenced by a physical evaluation before surgery. Certain conditions, such as an active infection, trauma to the spine, tumor, severe scoliosis, or instability, would rule out patients for this type of surgery.
Our orthopedic specialists conduct thorough evaluations before suggesting treatment, including:
- Detailed symptom assessment
- Physical examination and strength testing
- Review of imaging studies (MRI, X-rays)
- Discussion of treatment goals and expectations
Advanced Endoscopic Technology at New York Bone & Joint Specialists
The orthopedic surgeons at New York Bone & Joint have the expertise to successfully treat your spinal disc disease with endoscopic surgery.
- State-of-the-art endoscopic equipment
- High-definition cameras and imaging in the operating room
- Specialized instruments and tools for endoscopic surgery
- Our surgeons have undergone advanced training and meet the credentialing requirements for endoscopic surgery
- Continuous technology updates and improvements, including robotic-assisted and computer-navigated spinal surgery
- The industry-best standards for quality assurance and safety protocols to minimize complications
- Our investment in patient outcomes continues long after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome.
Risks and Considerations of Endoscopic Surgery
While endoscopic surgery significantly reduces surgical risks, all procedures carry potential complications:
General Surgical Risks:
- Bleeding (rare, <1%)
- Infection (<0.5%)
- Anesthesia reactions
Procedure-Specific Risks:
- Temporary numbness or weakness
- Incomplete symptom relief (5-10%)
- Need for revision surgery (rare)
- Dural tear in spine surgery (<1%)
Our experienced surgical team uses proven safety protocols to minimize these risks and optimize outcomes.
Preparing for Your Endoscopic Surgery
Before endoscopic surgery, you may be asked to:
- Have a consultation and a complete health evaluation
- Have pre-op tests, such as a blood test or electrocardiogram, for medical clearance from your surgeon or primary care doctor
- Start fasting with no food or drink the night before and/or morning of the surgery
- Stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners
- Stop smoking
- Schedule a ride to and from the surgical center, preferably by a family member or friend
Depending upon your health status, you may have to take other precautions. Discuss with your doctor any allergies you may have to medications or anesthesia. Plan on resting for at least a day, and have food delivered to your apartment since you’ll be unable to drive for a few days. Remove any fall risks, such as loose carpets, in your home.
Schedule your consultation today
The doctors and staff at New York Bone & Joint can help you overcome your pain so you can live an active lifestyle. Book now.
Endoscopic Surgery FAQs
How long is the endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery recovery time?
Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery recovery time can take up to six weeks, yet it is shorter than for open surgery. Physical therapy is recommended to increase the odds of complete healing.
What’s the difference between endoscopic and open carpal tunnel surgery?
Both endoscopic and open carpal tunnel surgery are effective in curing carpal tunnel syndrome. The main differences are a shorter recovery time and less scarring with endoscopic surgery, primarily due to a smaller incision.
Am I a candidate for endoscopic back surgery?
Endoscopic back surgery has been used to treat many spinal conditions, such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and sciatica in certain situations. Patients must be in good general health and have experienced symptoms after a course of conservative treatments before considering surgery.
What are the risks of endoscopic surgery?
Endoscopic surgery risks are the same as any open surgery, which include bleeding, infection, and possible trauma to surrounding tissues and nerves. The pain may return after endoscopic surgery, requiring a revision surgery. To minimize risk, your doctor will thoroughly evaluate the severity of your condition and decide whether you’re a good candidate for endoscopic surgery. For complex cases, open surgery may be the optimum choice.
How successful is endoscopic surgery compared to traditional surgery?
Both have high success rates. One study found that thoracic endoscopic spine surgery achieved a success rate of between 98 percent to 100 percent. But success depends on finding a doctor trained and experienced in endoscopic surgery for wrist and back pain.
