There are several types of transforaminal endoscopic spine surgery procedures, each tailored to specific spinal conditions. Some common types include:

1. Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (TELD): This procedure is performed to treat herniated or bulging discs in the lumbar spine. The surgeon accesses the affected disc through a small incision made near the spine's side and removes the damaged portion, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.
2. Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression (TELD): TELD is used to alleviate symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal. Surgeons use an endoscope to remove excess bone or tissue, creating more space for the spinal nerves.
3. Transforaminal Endoscopic Foraminoplasty (TEF): Foraminoplasty is a procedure that aims to enlarge the neural foramen, which is the passageway for spinal nerves. It is often performed to relieve nerve compression caused by conditions like foraminal stenosis or bone spurs.
4. Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Fusion (TELF): TELF is a minimally invasive fusion procedure that aims to stabilize the lumbar spine. It involves the use of an endoscope to remove the damaged disc and place bone graft material in the disc space. Over time, this graft material fuses with the adjacent vertebrae, creating spinal stability.
5. Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Laminectomy (TELL): TELL is used to treat spinal conditions where the lamina, a bony arch on the back of the vertebra, needs to be removed to decompress the spinal canal. An endoscope is used to visualize and remove the lamina without extensive tissue disruption.
6. Transforaminal Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy (TECD): While transforaminal endoscopy is more commonly associated with the lumbar spine, it can also be used for cervical spine conditions. TECD is used to address cervical disc herniations by accessing the cervical discs through the side of the neck.
7. Transforaminal Endoscopic Foraminoplasty (Cervical TEF): This procedure is performed in the cervical spine to address nerve compression caused by foraminal stenosis or other issues. It involves widening the neural foramen to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.

It's important to note that the specific procedure used will depend on the patient's diagnosis, the location of the spinal problem, and the surgeon's assessment of the most appropriate technique. Transforaminal endoscopic spine surgery is generally favored for its minimally invasive nature, which often results in less post-operative pain, quicker recovery, and smaller incisions compared to traditional open spine surgery. However, the suitability of these procedures depends on the individual patient's condition and overall health. Patients considering such surgery should consult with a qualified spine specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Endoscopic spine surgery offers several advantages compared to traditional "open" surgery, including:

• Small Incisions and Minimal Scarring: Endoscopic procedures involve smaller incisions, resulting in less noticeable scarring and reduced trauma to the skin and tissues.
• Minimal Damage to Surrounding Tissues: The minimally invasive nature of endoscopic surgery means that there is less disruption to surrounding muscles and soft tissues, which can contribute to a faster recovery.
• Reduced Blood Loss: Endoscopic surgery typically involves decreased blood loss during the procedure, which can lead to a safer surgical experience.
• Reduced Pain and Pain Medication: Patients often experience less postoperative pain with endoscopic surgery, reducing the need for pain medications and improving overall comfort.
• Quick Recovery: The minimally invasive approach promotes a swifter recovery, allowing patients to return to their regular activities sooner than with open surgery.
• Lower Risk of Postoperative Infection: The reduced tissue trauma and smaller incisions associated with endoscopic surgery can result in a decreased risk of postoperative infections, contributing to better overall outcomes.

These benefits make endoscopic spine surgery an attractive option for many patients seeking relief from spinal conditions while minimizing the impact on their daily lives.

An endoscope is a remarkably thin, fiber-optic video camera utilized to visualize internal body structures. In the context of spine surgery, endoscopes are typically the diameter of a standard pencil, ranging from 5 to 8 millimeters. The endoscope is inserted into the body through a small "keyhole" incision, just large enough to accommodate the endoscope. Surgery is then conducted by using specialized instruments through the endoscope to remove problematic disc material or bone spurs. The procedure is typically performed with the patient under local or epidural anesthesia, allowing them to remain awake, aware, and even move their legs during the surgery.

Within 2-3 hours following the procedure, patients are encouraged to have a meal and walk around in their room. They are generally required to stay overnight and are discharged to go home the next morning. During the initial 2 weeks of recovery, patients are allowed to walk within and around their home. After this period, they are typically scheduled for a follow-up appointment.

At the 2-week post-surgery mark, the doctor may advise the patient to gradually increase activities like walking and sitting for work, but heavy lifting, forward bending, and floor sitting should still be avoided.

Around 6 weeks after the surgery, patients may be allowed to enhance their exercise routines and resume work. However, sports and other strenuous activities should generally be postponed for a period of 3-6 months following the surgery to ensure proper healing and recovery.