Lumbar Endoscopic Spine Surgery A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) is growing in popularity as a minimally invasive approach to a variety of spinal conditions. Similar to other types of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), ESS aims to address the underlying pathology while minimizing surrounding tissue disruption. Its use in the lumbar spine has progressed over the past 50 years and is now routinely used in cases of lumbar disc herniations and stenosis. This review defines common terminology, highlights important developments in the history of ESS, and discusses its current and future application in the lumbar spine.