R
R.M.
Minimally invasive TLIF at L4-L5
““I could stand straight the very next morning and walked the corridor with the physio.””
Condition: Spondylolisthesis with bilateral leg pain • Recovery: 3 weeks
Read full storyEndoscopic & Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Hyderabad
Advanced endoscopic spine surgery in Hyderabad. Experience Day Care procedures, Same-Day Discharge, and Awake Spine Surgery options for faster recovery.
Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet • Room No. 317, OPD Block
Visit Our Neurosurgery Clinics in Hyderabad
Expert neurosurgical care available at multiple convenient locations across Hyderabad.
For high-risk or elderly patients
If you need to avoid general anaesthesia because of cardiac, lung, or metabolic risks, we offer an awake endoscopic spine pathway using spinal/epidural blocks with light sedation.
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) uses advanced endoscopic techniques to treat spine conditions through smaller incisions, resulting in less muscle damage, reduced pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Dr. Sayuj Krishnan specializes in endoscopic spine procedures, offering patients the benefits of modern surgical techniques with reduced trauma and quicker return to daily activities. Learn more about our local patient journey for endoscopic spine surgery in Hyderabad.
Compare: Endoscopic vs. Traditional Surgery
See why patients prefer the endoscopic approach for safer, faster recovery.
| 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 |
Your Treatment Journey
1
Initial Assessment
MRI review and clinical exam. Secure tele-consult available for outstation patients.
2
Pre-Op Planning
Fitness check and anaesthesia clearance. Option for Awake Spine Surgery protocol.
3
The Procedure
45-90 mins endoscopic surgery through a keyhole (8mm) incision.
4
Immediate Recovery
Walk within 2 hours. Liquid diet within 1 hour. Minimal pain.
5
Discharge
Go home the same day or next morning. No bed rest required.
6
Rehabilitation
Week 1: Rest & Walk. Week 2: Desk work. Week 6: Gym & exercises.
Diagnosis & Eligibility
Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards successful treatment. At Yashoda Hospital, we use advanced imaging and clinical evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for endoscopic surgery.
Diagnostic Tests We Use
- •MRI Spine: Essential to visualize disc herniation and nerve compression.
- •Dynamic X-Rays: To check for spinal instability (slippage) during movement.
- •CT Scan: Detailed bone imaging for fractures or bony spurs.
- •Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): To confirm nerve damage if diagnosis is unclear.
Who is a Candidate?
- ✓Patients with radiating leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain.
- ✓Those who have failed 6 weeks of physiotherapy and medication.
- ✓Difficulty walking due to spinal stenosis (claudication).
- ✓Presence of progressive numbness or muscle weakness.
Post-Operative Care Guide
Diet & Hydration
- • Drink plenty of water (3-4 liters)
- • High protein diet for healing
- • High fiber to prevent constipation
Wound Care
- • Keep incision dry for 3 days
- • Change dressing if soaked
- • No swimming/tub bath for 2 weeks
Do's & Don'ts
- • Do: Short walks every hour
- • Don't: Lift >5kg for 3 weeks
- • Don't: Twist or bend excessively
Procedures We Offer
Transforaminal Endoscopic Spine Surgery (TESS)
Ideally suited for paracentral and foraminal disc herniations. Accessed from the side (flank) under local anaesthesia, avoiding the spinal canal entirely.
Benefits:
- • Local anaesthesia
- • No bone removal
- • Walk immediately
- • Suture-less (Stitch-less)
Typical Recovery: 3-5 days
Interlaminar Endoscopic Spine Surgery (IESS)
Best for L5-S1 disc herniations and spinal stenosis. Accessed from the back through the natural interlaminar window.
Benefits:
- • Familiar posterior approach
- • Treats stenosis & disc
- • Minimal muscle dilation
- • High success rate
Typical Recovery: 1-2 weeks
Endoscopic Foraminotomy
Decompression of nerve roots through enlarged foraminal openings using endoscopic techniques.
Benefits:
- • Nerve decompression
- • Minimal tissue disruption
- • Quick return to activity
- • Lower infection risk
Typical Recovery: 2-3 weeks
Endoscopic ULBD
Unilateral laminotomy bilateral decompression for spinal stenosis using endoscopic approach.
Benefits:
- • Bilateral decompression
- • Preserved stability
- • Reduced blood loss
- • Shorter hospital stay
Typical Recovery: 2-4 weeks
Cervical Procedures
Endoscopic cervical discectomy and foraminotomy for neck and arm pain relief.
Benefits:
- • Anterior approach
- • Preserved motion
- • Minimal scarring
- • Quick mobilization
Typical Recovery: 1-2 weeks
MIS TLIF (Fusion)
Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for instability or spondylolisthesis.
Benefits:
- • Small incisions
- • Less blood loss
- • Faster fusion
- • Reduced hospital stay
Typical Recovery: 4-6 weeks
Why Choose Dr. Sayuj Krishnan?
Endoscopic Expert
Specialized training in full endoscopic spine surgery techniques.
Advanced Safety
Neuro-navigation and neuromonitoring for maximum safety.
Rapid Recovery
Day-care procedures with same-day walking and discharge.
Ethical Care
Transparent pricing and honest surgical indications.
Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery Safe for Elderly Patients?
Yes, it is often a safer option for patients over 60 compared to open surgery. Traditional open spine surgery carries risks due to general anesthesia and blood loss. Our endoscopic technique mitigates these risks significantly.
- ✓Local Anesthesia/Sedation: Avoids the cardiac stress of general anesthesia.
- ✓Minimal Blood Loss: Crucial for patients on blood thinners (managed carefully).
- ✓Early Mobilization: Reduces risk of pneumonia and DVT (clots).
Second Opinion for Senior Citizens
If your parent has been advised major spine surgery, bring them for an evaluation. We often find that a targeted 45-minute endoscopic procedure can resolve the pain without major surgery.
Book Senior Citizen ConsultEstimated 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 weeks |
|
| Endoscopic ULBD (Stenosis) | ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,60,000 | 2-3 weeks |
|
| Cervical Endoscopic Discectomy | ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,70,000 | 2-3 weeks |
|
| MIS TLIF (Spinal Fusion) | ₹2,50,000 - ₹3,50,000 | 4-6 weeks |
|
| Vertebroplasty (Cement) | ₹1,10,000 - ₹1,50,000 | 1 week |
|
Note: These are estimated ranges for standard cases. Final cost may vary based on room category, specific implants required, and medical complexity. Cashless insurance facilities are available with major TPAs.
Outcome metrics for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Patient satisfaction
98%
Patients reporting improved quality of life six weeks after care.
Average hospital stay
2.1 days
Measured across routine cases without additional comorbid risk.
Return to work
86%
Patients resuming desk duties within the recommended timeframe.
Metrics are derived from internal audit data (rolling 12 months) and adjusted for case-mix. Individual recovery varies.
Patient Success Stories
See how minimally invasive techniques provide effective sciatica leg pain relief and help patients with back pain return to their active lives.
When is MISS Recommended?
Suitable Conditions
- • Herniated discs (lumbar/cervical)
- • Spinal stenosis
- • Foraminal stenosis
- • Nerve root compression
- • Failed conservative treatment
Patient Selection
- • MRI-confirmed pathology
- • Symptoms match imaging findings
- • Failed 6+ weeks conservative care
- • No significant instability
- • Realistic expectations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) uses smaller incisions and endoscopic or microscopic instruments to reach the spine while gently moving muscles instead of cutting them. This approach reduces tissue trauma, pain, and blood loss compared to traditional open surgery.
What conditions can be treated with Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
MISS is recommended when conservative treatments no longer control symptoms from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, foraminal stenosis, spinal deformities like scoliosis, and spondylolisthesis. The specific technique is chosen based on the level and nature of the pathology.
What are the core patient benefits of choosing Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Patients typically experience less postoperative pain, reduced blood loss, minimal scarring, and faster recovery because the muscles and supporting tissues are preserved. Many MISS procedures allow a shorter hospital stay and an earlier return to normal activity.
How long does endoscopic spine surgery take?
Most endoscopic spine procedures take 1-3 hours depending on the complexity. Endoscopic discectomy typically takes 60-90 minutes, while more complex procedures like endoscopic ULBD may take 2-3 hours. The shorter operative time contributes to faster recovery.
What is the success rate of minimally invasive spine surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery has success rates of 85-95% for appropriate candidates. Success depends on proper patient selection, accurate diagnosis, and surgeon experience. Dr. Sayuj Krishnan has performed over 500 endoscopic procedures with excellent outcomes.
When can I return to work after endoscopic spine surgery?
Most patients can return to desk work within 1-2 weeks after endoscopic spine surgery. Manual labor may require 4-6 weeks. Recovery time varies based on the specific procedure, your overall health, and the physical demands of your job.
Is endoscopic spine surgery covered by insurance?
Yes, endoscopic spine surgery is typically covered by most insurance plans when medically necessary. We provide detailed medical estimates and work with insurance companies for pre-authorization. Cashless insurance approvals are available at Yashoda Hospital.
What are the risks of minimally invasive spine surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery has lower risks compared to open surgery, including reduced infection risk, less blood loss, and minimal muscle damage. Potential risks include nerve injury, bleeding, or infection, but these are significantly lower than traditional open procedures.
Recovery and Return to Activity
1
Week 1-2
Light walking, wound care, pain management
2
Week 2-4
Gradual activity increase, return to desk work
3
Week 4-8
Full activity, physical therapy if needed
Common Concerns
Is endoscopic surgery always better than open surgery?
Not always. We choose the approach that safely achieves the best outcome for your specific condition. Each case is evaluated individually.
How long is the hospital stay?
Most endoscopic procedures are day-care or require only 1-2 nights in the hospital, compared to 3-5 nights for traditional surgery.
When can I return to work?
Desk work can often resume within 1-2 weeks, while manual labor may require 4-6 weeks depending on the procedure and your recovery.
Red Flag Symptoms (When to see a doctor urgently)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- •Cauda Equina Syndrome signs: Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin/saddle area.
- •Progressive weakness: Sudden inability to lift your foot (foot drop) or leg weakness that gets worse.
- •History of cancer: If you have a history of cancer and develop new, severe back pain.
*These symptoms may indicate serious nerve compression requiring urgent evaluation to prevent permanent damage.
Related Conditions & Symptoms
Spine Conditions We Treat
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment- Narrowing of spinal canal
- Slip Disc / Herniated Disc- Microdiscectomy & endoscopic options
- Spine Tumor Surgery- Removal of spinal cord tumors
Related Symptoms
- Sciatica (Leg Pain)- Shooting pain down the leg
- Cervical Radiculopathy- Pinched nerve in the neck
- Cervical Myelopathy- Cord compression symptoms
Patient Success Stories
Same-Day Endoscopic Discectomy
Read about a patient who achieved same-day discharge after endoscopic discectomy for severe sciatica.
Read story →Endoscopic ULBD for Lumbar Stenosis
Learn how endoscopic ULBD improved walking distance and leg pain for a patient with spinal stenosis.
Read story →Ready to Discuss Your Treatment Options?
Dr. Sayuj Krishnan provides expert evaluation and personalized treatment plans for spine conditions.
Clinical References
- Johns Hopkins Medicine – Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- North American Spine Society – Clinical Guidelines for Minimally Invasive Spine Procedures
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 19 October 2025
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Sayuj for personalized medical guidance.
Dr. Sayuj Krishnan – Neurosurgeon
Hospital:Room No 317, OPD Block, Yashoda Hospital, Nalgonda X Roads, Malakpet, Hyderabad 500036
Phone:+919778280044
Email:hellodr@drsayuj.info