Spinal Endoscopy

A Spinal Endoscopy procedure involves passing an endoscope through the tail bone into the epidural space of the spine to capture images of scarring and adhesions to the nerve roots. In addition to inserting the endoscopy, the doctor will try and remove some of the scar tissue and adhesions so the medication can reach the nerve roots more effectively.

Who is a candidate for Spinal Endoscopy?

This procedure is typically performed on patients who have found more conservative treatments ineffective. Most of these patients have had lumbar spine surgery or at least have MRI or X-ray evidence of scarring. However, certain patients who have tried many other forms of treatment, excluding surgery, could be solid candidates for this type of procedure.

What does the injection consist of?

There are usually 3 injections: the first being a contrast dye to make the scarring visible on an X-ray, the second is saline used to dissect the scar tissue, and the last is a mixture of steroid, local anesthetic, and pain medication into the affected nerve roots.