Back and leg pain can severely limit your daily life — but not every spinal problem requires open surgery or long recovery times. Thanks to modern advancements, endoscopic spine surgery offers a safe, precise, and minimally invasive alternative to traditional spine operations.
At London Spine Health, we provide endoscopic spine surgery to suitable patients looking for faster recovery and long-term relief. Here’s what you need to know about the procedure, its benefits, and who may qualify.
What Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a thin tube-like camera (an endoscope) and specialised instruments to access and treat spinal conditions through a small incision — typically less than 1 cm in length.
Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires cutting through muscle and bone to reach the spine, the endoscope allows the surgeon to see inside the spine and perform precise interventions with minimal tissue damage.
It is most commonly used for treating:
Herniated discs
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Foraminal narrowing (nerve compression)
Discogenic back pain
How the Procedure Works
The operation is usually performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or light general anaesthesia. A small incision is made near the affected area, and a working channel is inserted.
Through this channel, the surgeon uses the endoscope to visualise the spinal structures on a monitor and operate using micro-instruments. Common procedures include:
Endoscopic discectomy: Removal of disc material pressing on a nerve
Endoscopic foraminoplasty: Widening of the nerve canal
Endoscopic decompression: Relieving pressure from a compressed nerve
Because the muscles are gently pushed aside instead of being cut, there is less trauma, faster healing, and lower risk of complications.
Benefits of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Patients undergoing endoscopic spine surgery at London Spine Health can expect:
Minimal incision (less than 1 cm)
Less blood loss and minimal scarring
Reduced post-operative pain
Lower risk of infection
Shorter hospital stays (often same-day discharge)
Faster return to work and activity
No general anaesthetic in many cases
This technique is ideal for those who wish to minimise downtime and avoid the risks associated with open spinal surgery.
Who Is a Candidate?
Endoscopic spine surgery is best suited for patients who:
Have a clearly defined disc or nerve compression on MRI or CT
Experience pain radiating down the arm or leg (sciatica or radiculopathy)
Have tried non-surgical treatments (e.g., physiotherapy, injections) with limited relief
Want a less invasive approach with quicker recovery
Are at higher risk from traditional open surgery due to age or comorbidities
It may not be suitable for patients with severe spinal instability, complex deformities, or multi-level disc degeneration. A consultation with a spine specialist is required to determine eligibility.
Why Choose London Spine Health?
At London Spine Health, we are committed to cutting-edge, patient-centred spine care. Our endoscopic spine procedures are performed by Mr Irfan Malik, a leading UK consultant spine surgeon with expertise in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques.
We provide:
Detailed diagnostics and imaging
Honest, evidence-based treatment recommendations
Personalised rehabilitation plans
A comfortable recovery experience in a modern Harley Street facility
Whether you are a working professional, athlete, or senior patient, we tailor your care for the safest, most effective outcome possible.
Book an Endoscopic Spine Consultation
If you’re living with nerve-related back or leg pain and want a faster, less invasive solution, endoscopic spine surgery may be the answer.
