Eric Gee, MD, an orthopedic spine surgeon at SGMC Health Smith Northview in Valdosta, Ga., has performed the system’s first endoscopic spine surgery.
The surgery was possible through SGMC’s partnership with Arthrex, a surgical technology company that develops tools and techniques for ultra-minimally invasive spine procedures, according to a May 20 news release.
Endoscopic spine surgery can often be performed in the outpatient setting, allowing patients to return home the same day. It is also less invasive, offers faster recovery times, reduced postoperative pain and is less reliant on narcotics.
Spine endoscopes provide a detailed view of the surgical site, allowing surgeons to treat herniated discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica and other degenerative spine issues.
