THE FIRST ATTEMPT IN ARMENIA OF EASYGO-TYPE ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY FOR LUMBAR SPINAL CANAL STENOSIS

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
• Degenerative Spinal Conditions

Background:

• Lumbar spinal canal stenosis is a prevalent degenerative condition in elderly patients, often necessitating surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail.
• Endoscopic decompression with the EasyGo system represents a novel approach not previously documented in Armenian neurosurgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of interlaminar endoscopic decompression utilizing the EasyGo system for lumbar spinal canal stenosis.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 41 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis at Nairi Medical Center, who underwent surgery for persistent pain or neurological deficits.
• Pre- and postoperative pain intensity was evaluated using a validated questionnaire, with outcomes categorized as good, satisfactory, or unchanged.
• Data on operative duration, complications, and hospital stay were systematically recorded.

Main Results:

• Significant pain reduction (80-90%) was observed in 97.5% of patients within 24 hours post-surgery.
• Sensory symptoms improved by 30-50%, with good outcomes in 73.2% and satisfactory outcomes in 24.3%.
• Minor intraoperative complications (epidural bleeding, dural tears) occurred without clinical impact; mean operative times were 40-90 minutes, and patients were discharged within 24 hours.

Conclusions:

• EasyGo-type interlaminar endoscopic decompression is an effective and novel technique in Armenian neurosurgery, offering substantial pain relief and minimal invasiveness.
• This method demonstrates advantages over transforaminal endoscopy and open surgery, enabling safer decompression for complex cases with fewer complications.
• Wider implementation of this endoscopic approach is recommended for both lumbar and cervical spine pathologies.