Endoscopic Microdiscectomy
When a lumbar herniated disc causes debilitating back pain and sciatica, the impact extends beyond physical discomfort. It limits your ability to work, engage with family and pursue the activities that give your life meaning.
Endoscopic microdiscectomy represents the evolution of minimally invasive herniated disc surgery, offering ultra-small incisions under one inch, same-day outpatient treatment and a faster return to active living. This next-generation microdiscectomy approach delivers the advanced surgical care you deserve.
Endoscopic vs. Traditional Microdiscectomy
Traditional lumbar microdiscectomy requires larger incisions and involves cutting or stripping the spinal muscles to access the herniated disc, which increases recovery time. Endoscopic microdiscectomies use a high-definition endoscope, allowing Dr. Melikian to access the herniated disc through a natural pathway without cutting muscle.
This muscle-preserving approach makes endoscopic techniques one of the least invasive options available. While both approaches relieve nerve pressure, the endoscopic method significantly reduces post-operative surgical pain by preserving muscle integrity.
Advantages of Ultra-Minimally-Invasive Disc Surgery
Choosing endoscopic spine surgery provides measurable advantages:
- Same-day disc surgery: You leave our outpatient facility within hours. Our team will guide you through a post-operative walk before discharge.
- Muscle preservation: Dr. Melikian accesses the herniated disc without cutting muscle, resulting in less tissue trauma and scarring.
- Accelerated recovery: The muscle-preserving nature of endoscopic techniques typically supports a faster return to your daily activities compared to conventional microdiscectomy. Your recovery will depend on factors like your overall health and the physical demands of your work and lifestyle.
- Lower complication rates: Endoscopic discectomy is designed to minimize muscle disruption, which may help reduce post-operative pain and support recovery.
Are You a Candidate for Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
You may be an ideal candidate if you are suffering from persistent leg pain, numbness or weakness due to a confirmed lumbar herniated disc. This procedure is designed for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications or epidural steroid injections and those who are ready to reclaim their mobility and quality of life.
Dr. Melikian will evaluate your condition through a comprehensive consultation. Through individualized care tailored to your spinal anatomy, he will determine whether this approach is right for you. For patients experiencing cervical disc issues, anterior endoscopic cervical microdiscectomy may be an option to discuss with Dr. Melikian.
Personalized Care and Fellowship-Trained Expertise
Dr. Rojeh Melikian brings award-winning, fellowship-trained expertise to every patient. His training at the Harvard Combined Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program and the Emory University Spine Fellowship provided him with advanced skills in performing sophisticated endoscopic techniques. As a nationally recognized board-certified spine surgeon, Dr. Melikian combines his passion for minimally invasive surgery with technical precision and dedication to patient safety and individualized care.
Our cutting-edge outpatient surgical centers in Marina del Rey, Brentwood and Newport Beach are equipped with the latest endoscopic technology. Dr. Melikian has achieved a zero MRSA infection rate to date, reflecting meticulous attention to surgical technique.
Get Advanced Spine Care in Southern California
If you are ready to explore whether you qualify for this advanced technique, schedule a consultation or call us at 949-806-6946. Dr. Melikian welcomes patients throughout Southern California and accommodates those traveling from out of town with phone and video consultation options.