Spinal endoscopy: evidence, techniques, global trends, and future projections.
Andrew K Simpson1, Harry M Lightsey2, Grace X Xiong2
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115; Microendoscopic Spine Institute, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115.
Spinal endoscopy, an indirect visualization technique, is increasingly adopted globally for minimally invasive spine surgery. This review covers its background, evidence, techniques, and trends for better clinical understanding.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Spinal Endoscopy
- Surgical Visualization
Background:
- Indirect visualization is replacing direct methods in surgery.
- Spine surgery adoption of indirect visualization has lagged but is increasing.
- Patient demand and surgeon initiatives drive global spinal endoscopy adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a consolidated review of spinal endoscopy.
- To cover the background, evidence, techniques, and trends.
- To enhance clinician understanding of this evolving field.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on spinal endoscopy.
- Analysis of current endoscopic platforms and techniques.
- Examination of global adoption trends and regional variations.
Main Results:
- Spinal endoscopy offers less invasive solutions compared to traditional spine surgery.
- Numerous platforms and techniques are currently in use and evolving rapidly.
- Significant regional heterogeneity exists in spinal endoscopic procedure utilization.
Conclusions:
- Spinal endoscopy represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive spine care.
- Understanding the evolving landscape of spinal endoscopy is crucial for clinicians.
- Continued research and development are expected in this domain.
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