Cervical Foraminotomy in Hyderabad: Endoscopic and Microscopic Options
Cervical foraminotomy enlarges the nerve's exit corridor (foramen) in the neck to relieve arm pain, numbness, or weakness caused by foraminal stenosis or a lateral cervical disc fragment. In selected patients, an endoscopic approach can achieve targeted decompression through a tiny incision; in others, a microscopic approach is preferred. Your MRI and exam guide the safest option.
Who is a candidate?
- MRI‑confirmed foraminal stenosis or lateral/foraminal disc herniation matching symptoms
- Persistent pain or weakness despite appropriate conservative care (medicines, physiotherapy, ergonomic changes)
- No gross instability or deformity that would require fusion (ACDF)
- Anatomy that allows safe access to the foramen
How the procedure works
- Through a small posterior incision, a working channel is placed under imaging guidance.
- Endoscopic or microscopic visualization is used to remove impinging bone/soft tissue and free the nerve root.
- If visualization/access is inadequate for safety, conversion to an alternative approach is discussed in consent.
Endoscopic vs microscopic vs ACDF
Endoscopic foraminotomy
Tiny incision, magnified camera view; aims to preserve motion when feasible.
Microscopic foraminotomy
Small incision under microscope; used when access or anatomy favors microscope.
ACDF (fusion)
Selected when broader removal and stabilization are safer or needed; reduces motion at the treated level.
We recommend the approach that safely achieves decompression for your anatomy and goals.
Benefits and risks
Potential Benefits
- Small incision
- Minimal muscle disruption
- Earlier mobilization for eligible patients
- Some qualify for day‑care discharge
Risks
- Infection, bleeding
- Nerve injury
- CSF leak
- Persistent or recurrent symptoms
- Neck stiffness
- Conversion to another approach for safety
No surgery is risk‑free.
Recovery and return to work (typical; individualized)
Day 0
Short supervised walks; neck support as advised.
Week 1
Light tasks at home; avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or extreme neck ranges.
Weeks 2–4
Desk work as tolerated with micro‑breaks; begin guided rehab after review.
Weeks 4–8
Progressive activity; manual roles with a graded plan.
Red flags
Fever, wound drainage, worsening weakness, new gait imbalance—contact the clinic promptly.
Costs and insurance (Hyderabad)
- Many policies cover indicated in‑patient decompression with pre‑authorization.
- Day‑care may be possible in selected endoscopic cases.
- Final costs depend on room category and policy caps; we provide a written estimate after evaluation and MRI review.
Why choose Dr Sayuj Krishnan
- Expertise across endoscopic and microscopic cervical decompressions and motion‑preserving strategies.
- Safety‑first protocols, clear counseling, and structured follow‑up at Yashoda Hospitals – Malakpet.
- Patients visit from Malakpet, Koti, Charminar, Himayat Nagar, Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, and Secunderabad.
Book a Consultation
We'll help you choose the safest, most effective option—endoscopic, microscopic, or fusion—based on your MRI and goals. Book a consultation at Yashoda Hospitals – Malakpet and bring your MRI for a personalized plan.
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References
Disclaimer
Educational content only; treatment decisions are individualized after clinical evaluation and imaging review. Outcomes vary; no guarantees.
Last medically reviewed: October 1, 2025 — Medical reviewer: Dr Sayuj Krishnan, MBBS, DNB (Neurosurgery), Fellowship in Minimally Invasive and Advanced Spine Surgery.