Spinal endoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat certain conditions of the spine.

Through a very small incision, a surgeon uses a rigid high-definition endoscope to access the affected area
and remove or repair tissue that may be irritating or compressing spinal nerves. This approach allows
surgeons to work with great accuracy, using a magnified view of spinal structures on a monitor, while
minimising damage to muscles, ligaments, and bones.

Endoscopic spinal surgery is the broader term for these techniques. It allows treatment of spinal conditions
using real-time imaging and specialised instruments through small incisions. The goal is to relieve pressure
on spinal nerves and reduce pain, while preserving as much normal anatomy as possible.

  • Lumbar Spinal Endoscopy
  • Cervical Spinal Endoscopy

SEERAS Referrals - For Medical Professionals, GPs and MSK Services


A spinal endoscope is a narrow, rigid tube equipped with a high-definition camera, a light source, and
channels for surgical instruments. This allows the surgeon to work inside the spine with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.


There are two main types of endoscopic spinal surgery:

  •  Full Endoscopic Spine Surgery (FESS): uses one small keyhole incision for both camera and instruments.
  •  Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery (BESS): uses two small keyhole incisions-one for the camera, one for instruments.

Both techniques support enhanced recovery. Your surgeon will advise which approach is best for your
condition.


This service may be suitable for you if:

  • You have leg or back pain caused by pressure on the nerves in your spine (sometimes called trapped
  • nerves or nerve compression)
  • You've been told you have a condition like a slipped disc or spinal narrowing (stenosis)
  • You've tried treatments like physiotherapy or spinal injections, but your symptoms haven't improved
  • You are looking for a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery
  • You are generally well enough for a short hospital stay or day surgery


Spinal endoscopy can also be used in cases where previous spinal surgery has not resolved symptoms, or
symptoms have returned. This is known as revision surgery. Endoscopic techniques can be used to access
previously operated areas, offering a less invasive option for selected patients who require further treatment
after failed back surgery.


Endoscopic spine surgery offers several benefits compared to traditional open back surgery. Because the
procedure uses a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions, there is much less damage to muscles and tissues. This means less pain after the operation, smaller scars, and a quicker recovery.

Unlike open surgery, which may require large cuts and a longer hospital stay, endoscopic surgery is usually
done as a day case. Most patients are up and walking on the same day and can return to light activities much sooner. This approach helps people get back to their normal lives with less disruption.


We accept both local and national referrals from across the country.

To access the service, please speak to your GP or healthcare provider. They can refer you directly to the
spinal team at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital. We also accept referrals from physiotherapists,
musculoskeletal (MSK) clinics, and other spinal specialists.

Referrals should include any recent scan results (such as MRI), a summary of your symptoms, and details of any treatments you've already tried.

SEERAS Referrals - For Medical Professionals, GPs and MSK Services


The following spinal consultants provide endoscopic spinal surgery at the Royal National Orthopaedic
Hospital:

Contact us:
Mr Mohamed Madi
Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust