What is Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy?

Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs in the lower back. The procedure involves the use of a small endoscope that is inserted through a small incision in the patient's back. The endoscope allows the neuro spine surgeon to visualize the herniated disc and surrounding structures, such as nerves and blood vessels. The surgeon then uses specialized instruments to remove the herniated disc material, relieving pressure on the nerves and reducing pain and other symptoms.

PELD is a relatively new technique that offers several advantages over traditional open surgery for herniated discs. These advantages include smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. PELD is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the procedure.

However, PELD may not be suitable for all patients with herniated discs. It is generally recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and other non-operative mode of therapy.

Why and when Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy is recommended?

Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) is recommended when conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, and rest, have not provided relief for a patient with a herniated disc in their lower back. PELD is typically recommended for patients who are experiencing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or feet due to a herniated disc.

The decision to recommend PELD is based on several factors, including the severity and duration of the patient's symptoms, the size and location of the herniated disc, and the patient's overall health and medical history.

PELD is generally considered a safe and effective procedure for treating herniated discs in the lower back, and it offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

How Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy is different from other conventional treatment?

Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is different from other conventional treatments for herniated discs in the lower back in several ways:

PELD is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small incision and specialized instruments to remove the herniated disc material. This results in less damage to surrounding tissues, less blood loss, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Local Anesthesia: PELD can be performed under local anesthesia, which is a safer option compared to general anesthesia used in traditional open surgery. Local anesthesia also allows the patient to be awake during the procedure, which can help the surgeon ensure that the correct disc material is being removed.

Outpatient or Daycare Procedure: PELD is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the procedure.

Faster Recovery: PELD allows for a faster recovery time, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days or weeks. In contrast, traditional open surgery may require several weeks or months of recovery time.

Targeted Treatment: PELD allows the surgeon to target the specific herniated disc material that is causing the patient's symptoms, without disturbing the surrounding healthy tissue. This results in a more precise and effective treatment.

Overall, PELD offers several advantages over traditional open surgery and other conventional treatments for herniated discs in the lower back.

How is life after Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy?

Life after Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) can vary depending on the patient's individual circumstances, but in general, most patients experience a significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. PELD is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows for a faster recovery time and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery.

Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a few days or weeks after PELD, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the herniated disc. However, patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks after the procedure to allow time for the incision to heal.

In the long term, patients who undergo PELD can expect to experience a reduction in their symptoms, such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, legs, or feet. With proper care and management, patients can maintain their improved quality of life and avoid future complications related to their herniated disc.