Ultra-MINIMALLY INVASIVE CARE
Endoscopic Spine Surgery in Hyderabad | Minimally Invasive Keyhole Surgery
Endoscopic—or “keyhole”—spine surgery provides fast, lasting relief from slip disc, sciatica, and foraminal stenosis with almost no muscle disruption. Performed by Dr. Sayuj at Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet, this approach helps you walk the same day and return to normal life sooner.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Sayuj Krishnan
Why Choose Malakpet for “Keyhole” Surgery?
- • Consultant-led programme with advanced endoscopic training
- • Dedicated 4K endoscopic tower and neuromonitoring in Yashoda Malakpet
- • Most patients walk within hours and often go home the same evening
- • Post-operative physiotherapy and return-to-work planning in the same campus
Free MRI Review & Second Opinion
Not sure if you need surgery? Send us your MRI report on WhatsApp. Dr. Sayuj will personally review it to see if you are a candidate for Keyhole Endoscopic Surgery.
Am I a Candidate for Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery is a targeted "keyhole" solution. It is most effective when the main problem is nerve compression (pinched nerve) rather than generalized back ache or spinal instability. Dr. Sayuj evaluates every patient individually, but generally:
Related Symptoms: If you are experiencing severe back pain or shooting leg pain (sciatica), this minimally invasive option might be right for you.
- • Lumbar disc herniation (slip disc)
- • Sciatica with leg pain
- • Spinal stenosis (narrowing)
- • Foraminal stenosis
- • Cervical disc herniation
- • Failed conservative treatment (6+ weeks)
Advanced Endoscopic Techniques We Use
Transforaminal Endoscopy (TESS)
Best for slip disc (herniation) affecting the nerve root. Accessed through the side (foramen) without cutting bone, avoiding instability.
Interlaminar Endoscopy (ILESS)
Ideal for L5-S1 herniations and spinal stenosis. Accessed from the back through a tiny window, clearing thickened ligaments.
Daycare Spine Surgery
Our specialized protocol allows 90% of patients to walk within 3 hours and go home the same day, minimizing hospital acquired infection risks.
Endoscopic Cervical Decompression
Posterior approach for neck disc herniations, avoiding fusion and preserving neck mobility.
Endoscopic Foraminal Decompression
Targeted widening of the nerve exit canal to relieve 'pinched nerves' caused by bone spurs or collapse.
Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy
Gold-standard minimally invasive removal of disc fragments pressing on nerves, allowing same-day walking.
Awake Endoscopic Spine Surgery
For elderly or high-risk patients, we perform the procedure under local anaesthesia with mild sedation, avoiding general anaesthesia risks.
Inside the Operation Theatre: Step-by-Step
Comfort & Safety
The procedure is typically performed under local or regional anaesthesia with mild sedation. You remain comfortable but awake, allowing you to communicate with the surgeon if needed. General anaesthesia is available for anxious patients.
Tiny Incision
A small incision of about 7-8mm (less than 1 cm) is made. This is covered by a small Band-Aid after surgery, leaving minimal to no scarring.
Muscle Preservation
Instead of cutting through muscles (as in open surgery), we use a series of dilators to gently separate muscle fibres. This creates a tunnel to the spine without tissue damage.
High-Definition Decompression
An endoscope with a 4K camera is inserted. Dr. Sayuj views the nerves on a large monitor and precisely removes the disc herniation or bone spurs pressing on the nerve using micro-instruments.
Closure & Recovery
The instruments are removed, and the skin is closed with a single stitch or skin glue. Most patients feel immediate relief from leg pain and are encouraged to walk within 2-3 hours.
Clinical Success Rates
Endoscopic spine surgery has evolved to become the gold standard for many spinal conditions. Success is defined as significant pain relief, return to function, and no need for further surgery.
High success in relieving sciatica pain with low recurrence rates compared to open surgery.
Effective decompression of the spinal canal with significant improvement in walking distance.
Excellent outcomes for arm pain (radiculopathy) with minimal neck muscle trauma.
What to Expect at Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet
After reviewing your MRI, Dr. Sayuj confirms whether a “keyhole” decompression will relieve the nerve pressure. The procedure is typically performed under spinal anaesthesia, and patients begin walking within hours. Because muscles are not stripped away, discomfort is markedly lower than with conventional surgery.
Before discharge you receive a written plan covering wound care, physiotherapy milestones, and the timeline for driving, office work, and more strenuous activity. Follow-ups happen in our Malakpet clinic or via teleconsult to track your recovery closely.
Patient Journey
- Consult in Malakpet with MRI/CT scans for eligibility assessment.
- Undergo day-care surgery through a 1 cm incision with minimal blood loss.
- Walk with assistance within 2-3 hours and discharge the same evening or next morning.
- Follow personalised rehab and return-to-work guidelines shared before discharge.
Step-by-Step: Inside the Operation Theatre
Many patients feel anxious about what happens during the surgery. Because this is a conscious or lightly sedated procedure for many, transparency is key. Here is the exact 45-60 minute protocol we follow:
Anesthesia & Positioning
You lie face down on a comfortable gel frame. Local anaesthesia is applied to the skin, or mild sedation is given so you sleep but can still wake up if needed. You are comfortable throughout.
Targeting the "Keyhole"
Using a live X-ray (C-arm), Dr. Sayuj marks the exact spot (accurate to the millimetre) on your skin. A tiny 7mm incision is made—about the size of a fingernail.
The Endoscopic Work
A thin tube (endoscope) with a 4K camera is inserted. The herniated disc or bone spur pressing on the nerve is magnified on a large screen and carefully removed using micro-instruments.
The "Free Nerve" Check
Dr. Sayuj visually confirms the nerve is floating freely. If you are awake, he may ask you to move your leg to confirm the pain is gone instantly.
Closure & Walk
The tube is removed. No stitches are usually needed—just a small waterproof band-aid. You are shifted to the recovery room and can typically walk to the washroom within 2-3 hours.
Recovery Timeline
Endoscopic vs. Traditional Spine Surgery
Many patients ask why endoscopic surgery is preferred over traditional open methods. The key difference lies in how we approach the spine—preserving your natural anatomy rather than cutting through it.
| Feature | Endoscopic (Keyhole) Surgery | Traditional Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | Tiny (< 1 cm) | Large (3-5 inches) |
| Muscle Damage | Minimal (muscles dilated, not cut) | Significant (muscles stripped) |
| Blood Loss | Negligible | Moderate |
| Hospital Stay | Day Care / 24 hours | 3-5 days |
| Post-op Pain | Mild (oral meds only) | Moderate to Severe |
| Recovery Time | Return to work in 1-2 weeks | 4-6 weeks or more |
| Scarring | Almost invisible | Noticeable scar |
Cost & Recovery Comparison
| Feature | Endoscopic Spine Surgery | Microdiscectomy | Open Spine Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | 8mm (Keyhole) | 2-3 cm | 5-10 cm |
| Hospital Stay | Day Care (6-8 hours) | 1-2 Days | 3-5 Days |
| Return to Desk Work | 3-5 Days | 2-3 Weeks | 4-6 Weeks |
| Est. Cost (Self-Pay) | ₹1.3L - ₹1.8L* | ₹1.1L - ₹1.5L | ₹80k - ₹1.2L |
| Infection Risk | < 0.1% | ~1-2% | ~3-5% |
*Costs are approximate and vary by room category and implant needs. Higher initial cost of endoscopy is often offset by shorter hospital stay and faster return to work.
Serving Patients Across Hyderabad
Our Malakpet location is convenient for patients travelling from Dilsukhnagar, LB Nagar, Charminar, Koti, and other neighbourhoods. We help with corporate approvals, insurance paperwork, and travel coordination for families who support you during the procedure.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
- • Bring MRI/CT scans and prior reports for review
- • Inform us about blood thinners, diabetes medications, or cardiac history
- • Arrange an attendant to accompany you home after day-care discharge
Post-Surgery Care
- • First dressing change at 48 hours in the Malakpet clinic
- • Physiotherapy-guided exercises begin Day 2
- • Follow-up visit in 7-10 days with wound inspection and rehab plan
Red Flags: When is Surgery Urgent?
Most spine conditions can wait for medication or therapy. However, immediate medical attention is required if you experience:
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control, or numbness in the groin/saddle area.
Progressive Weakness
Rapidly worsening weakness in the foot (foot drop) or leg that affects walking.
Intractable Pain
Severe pain that does not improve with rest or maximum medical management.
Estimated Cost of Treatment
Transparent pricing for self-pay patients. Insurance packages available.
| Procedure | Estimated Cost Range (INR) | Typical Recovery | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endoscopic Discectomy (Lumbar) | ₹95,000 - ₹1,35,000 | 1-2 Days |
|
| Endoscopic Canal Decompression | ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,60,000 | 2 Days |
|
| Cervical Endoscopic Decompression | ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,70,000 | 2 Days |
|
Note: Approximate package estimates for self-pay patients at Yashoda Hospital Malakpet. Final cost depends on room category (General/Sharing/Private), insurance approvals, and specific implant requirements. We offer full assistance with insurance pre-authorization.
Clinic Location & Day-Care Support
Procedures are performed at Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet in a dedicated endoscopic suite. Our team coordinates pre-admission tests, insurance approvals, and same-day discharge protocols tailored to your travel plans.
Map & Directions
View Location on Map
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from other minimally invasive spine surgeries?
Endoscopic surgery uses a high-definition camera through a “keyhole” incision that is typically less than 1 cm. This approach preserves muscle, reduces postoperative pain, and speeds recovery compared to tubular or open techniques.
What should I expect on the day of endoscopic spine surgery?
Most cases are day-care procedures. You arrive for pre-op checks, undergo the keyhole surgery, and begin walking within hours. Discharge is usually the same evening or next morning with a written recovery plan.
Is Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet easy to reach for day-care surgery?
Yes. The hospital is centrally located in Malakpet, making it convenient for patients travelling from Dilsukhnagar, LB Nagar, Charminar, Koti, and other parts of Hyderabad. Parking and attendant lounges are available on-site.
Why choose Dr. Sayuj for this “keyhole” procedure?
Endoscopic spine surgery is a specialised skill. Dr. Sayuj has focused training in full endoscopic techniques and performs them regularly at Yashoda Hospital, ensuring precision, safety, and consistent patient outcomes.
Is endoscopic spine surgery the same as laser spine surgery?
No. Laser surgery often refers to limited surface ablation. Endoscopic surgery is a comprehensive structural correction (removing bone spurs or disc fragments) under high-definition visualization, offering far superior long-term results than laser alone.
How does endoscopic spine surgery recovery compare to microscopic surgery?
Endoscopic surgery typically offers a faster recovery. Since it uses a smaller incision (8mm vs 2-3cm) and avoids cutting muscle, most patients walk within 3 hours and return to work in 3-5 days, compared to 2-3 weeks for microscopic surgery.
Visit Our Neurosurgery Clinics in Hyderabad
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Clinical References
- North American Spine Society – Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Coverage Recommendations
- Hospital for Special Surgery – Endoscopic Spine Surgery FAQs
External links are provided for transparency and do not represent sponsorships. Each source was accessed on 19 Oct 2025.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sayuj KrishnanConsultant Neurosurgeon, Yashoda Hospital MalakpetLast reviewed 20 February 2025
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Sayuj for personalized medical guidance.