The neurosurgery service of Clinica Ricardo Palma has advanced technology for the treatment of herniated discs through percutaneous endoscopic nucleoplasty, a technique that allows minimally invasive interventions to be carried out in order to alleviate the pain caused by this condition. This procedure is safer, more effective and faster, compared to conventional open surgery, as it allows the specialist to make better decisions, highlights Dr. Pamela García-Corrochano, neurosurgeon at our institution.

What benefits does this technology offer us?

The benefits provided by this technology to treat herniated discs are:

• More precise procedures
• Reduction of the risk of collateral damage to the structure of the spine
• Avoid scars
• Acceleration of the recovery process
• Decrease in postoperative discomfort

How it is done?

It consists of introducing a guide wire and a working cannula through a small incision in the skin to the degenerated disc, which is treated or removed and radiofrequency is applied. The endoscopic camera installed in the working cannula allows the specialist to have maximum control of the procedure.

What type of procedure is it?

It is an outpatient procedure. After a few days the patient can return to normal activities, maintaining general care and postural hygiene. Most of the time, the discomfort is completely gone after a few weeks.

For what type of patients is it suggested?

Nucleoplasty is suggested in patients with symptomatic contained disc herniation or with a black disc, with a poorly developed hernia and in people who have had conservative treatment for more than 6 weeks, including medications, physical therapy and epidural injections, without positive results.

Dr. Pamela García-Corrochano
Neurosurgeon at Clínica Ricardo Palma