Endoscopic-Assisted Microsurgery

What is endoscopic-assisted microsurgery?

Endoscopic-assisted microsurgery , is a highly precise surgical approach. Many neurosurgical operations are done with the assistance of a surgical microscope, a device that magnifies and illuminates the surgical field to enhance accuracy and allow for careful dissection. Sometimes it is difficult to see around corners and get light deep in the surgical corridor so the surgery can be enhanced by the addition of an endoscope. An endoscope is a long device with a camera and light at the end, it also has a variety of different angles that allows the surgeon to look around corners. This can improve outcomes by detecting pieces of tumour or vessels that is not visible with using the microscope alone.

What are the different types of microsurgical treatments?

• Aneurysm clipping: A tiny opening is made in the skull, and a metal clip is strategically inserted over the neck of the aneurysm.
• Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) resection: Microsurgical equipment is used to immediately cut off the blood supply.
• Brain and skull base tumour resection: Surgeons can precisely and safely remove the tumour using standard microsurgical techniques.
• Posterior fossa decompression: A small fragment is removed from the back portion of the skull in order to create enough room and minimise pressure in the area.
• Lumbar and cervical discectomy: Refers to the surgical resection of the herniated disc and any leftover fragments through a tiny incision and the use of microsurgical equipment.

Microsurgery may be performed while the patient is unconscious or heavily sedated under general anaesthetic.

What can I anticipate from recovery?

Immediately after the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery unit, where vital signs such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure are closely monitored. Optimal recovery involves strictly adhering to wound care instructions, closely monitoring the body for potential side effects, and implementing complementary rehabilitative therapies such as speech, physical, and swallowing therapy.