Epiduroscopic interventions (CLOSED WAIST SURGERY, EPIDUROSCOPY)

Epiduroscopic interventions, also known as closed waist surgery or epiduroscopy, are minimally invasive procedures used to diagnose and treat chronic pain conditions affecting the epidural space. The epidural space is the area surrounding the spinal cord and contains nerves, blood vessels, and fatty tissue.

During an epiduroscopic intervention, a small endoscope (epiduroscope) is inserted into the epidural space through a tiny incision in the skin. The epiduroscope is a flexible tube with a camera and light source at the tip, allowing the physician to visualize the epidural space in real time. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation.

Epiduroscopy Purpose

Therapeutic Epiduroscopy: Once a problem is identified, the physician can also perform therapeutic interventions to alleviate pain and improve the patient’s condition. This may include:

Epidural adhesiolysis: The removal or breaking down of adhesions or scar tissue that may be causing nerve compression.

Injection of medication: The epiduroscope allows for precise placement of corticosteroids, local anesthetics, or other medications directly to the affected areas for pain relief and reduction of inflammation.

Mechanical decompression: The epiduroscope can be used to mechanically remove or break down tissue, such as a herniated disc, that is causing nerve compression.

Epiduroscopic interventions have several advantages over traditional open surgery. They are minimally invasive, require smaller incisions, and typically result in less postoperative pain, fewer complications, and shorter recovery times. Additionally, because the procedure is performed under direct visualization, it offers improved accuracy and precision compared to blind injections or other diagnostic methods.

It’s important to note that while epiduroscopy can provide significant pain relief for many patients, it may not be suitable for everyone. The decision to undergo epiduroscopic intervention should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for you.