Who is a candidate for endoscopic cervical discectomy?

Patients with MRI-confirmed soft disc herniation matching symptoms, after conservative care, and anatomy suitable for safe endoscopic access.

How does it compare with ACDF?

Endoscopic aims to preserve motion in selected cases; ACDF fuses the level and is chosen when broader removal or stabilization is safer.

What is the typical recovery time?

Desk work often resumes in 2–4 weeks; manual roles may take 4–8+ weeks with a graded plan, individualized by exam and symptoms.

Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy in Hyderabad

Endoscopic cervical discectomy is a tiny‑incision technique to remove a herniated fragment pressing on a cervical nerve root in selected patients. The goal is to free the nerve with minimal disruption and, when feasible, preserve normal motion. It is not suitable for everyone; your MRI and symptoms guide the safest approach.

Who is a candidate?

MRI‑confirmed soft disc herniation matching arm pain/numbness/weakness
Limited response to appropriate conservative care
No gross instability or deformity requiring fusion
Anatomy that allows safe endoscopic access (posterior foraminotomy/discectomy corridor)

How the procedure works

A small incision is made; a working channel is placed under imaging guidance.
The endoscope provides magnified visualization of the foramen/disc space.
The herniated fragment is carefully removed to decompress the nerve.
If visualization/access is inadequate for safety, we may convert to a microscopic approach after informed consent.

Endoscopic vs ACDF/Microdiscectomy

Endoscopic (posterior)

Tiny incision; aims to preserve motion; suitable for selected herniations/foraminal stenosis.

Microdiscectomy/Foraminotomy

Similar goals via microscope; small incision.

ACDF

Anterior approach with fusion; chosen when broader removal and stabilization are safer or needed.

We recommend the option that safely achieves decompression for your anatomy and goals.

Benefits and risks

Potential Benefits

Small incision
Minimal muscle disruption
Earlier mobilization in selected cases
Possible day‑care discharge

Risks

Infection, bleeding
Nerve injury
CSF leak
Persistent or recurrent symptoms
Neck stiffness
Conversion to another approach for safety

Recovery and return to work (typical ranges; individualized)

Day 0

Short assisted walks; neck support as instructed

Week 1

Light desk tasks with micro‑breaks; wound care

Weeks 2–4

Gradual return to desk work; begin guided rehab after review

Weeks 4–8

Progressive activity; manual roles with graded plan

Red flags

Fever, worsening weakness, new gait imbalance, wound drainage—contact the clinic promptly.

Costs and insurance (Hyderabad)

Many policies cover indicated in‑patient procedures after pre‑authorization
Day‑care may apply to selected patients; room category and policy caps affect final bill
A written estimate follows evaluation and policy review

Why choose Dr Sayuj Krishnan

Expertise in endoscopic and minimally invasive cervical decompression
Safety‑first protocols with clear counseling and structured follow‑up
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 exam and imaging. Outcomes vary; no guarantees.

Last medically reviewed: October 1, 2025 — Medical reviewer: Dr Sayuj Krishnan, MBBS, DNB Neurosurgery (Direct 6 years)