Use of fluoroscopy in endoscopic spine surgery

Abstract

Fluoroscopy has fundamentally enabled the development and success of endoscopic spine surgery. It provides the real-time visualization, confirmation of anatomy, and the ability the adjust during the surgery. These have made techniques such as endoscopic discectomy, decompression, and fusion not only feasible, but highly effective. Indeed, endoscopic spine surgery exemplifies both technological and surgical skill to minimize patient morbidity, create small incisions, and limit tissue dissection to reduce the tissue trauma, while fluoroscopic imaging ensures that the surgery remains on target. Nonetheless, the use of fluoroscopy introduces the hazard of ionizing radiation. Therefore, how to use it safely is the important. By adhering to radiation safety principle and proper precautions, the risks are very low, allowing the benefits of fluoroscopic guidance to far outweigh the downsides. Fluoroscopic guidance has been, and continues to be, a cornerstone of endoscopic spine surgery, turning the once “blind” percutaneous procedures into precise, controlled operations. Its use has significantly advanced the field of minimally invasive spine surgery, contributing to faster recoveries and reduced morbidity for patients by enabling effective treatment through small portals. As technology progresses, we can expect fluoroscopy to be augmented by cutting-edge imaging and navigation tools in near future.