Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet has introduced endoscopic fusion surgery.According to a press release, the technique offers a minimally invasive alternative for selected patients who require spinal fusion but may benefit from a smaller surgical footprint than traditional open surgery or standard minimally invasive surgery.Endoscopic fusion is spinal fusion performed through a working channel and high-definition camera inserted via an incision of 8 mm. The surgeon decompresses the affected nerves, prepares the disc space and places an interbody implant with fixation under continuous visualisation, while aiming to preserve the surrounding muscle, bone, and ligaments.The treatment is more suitable for degenerative lumbar conditions such as disc disease, spinal stenosis and selected low-grade instability, persistent nerve-root compression causing leg pain after adequate conservative care, revision or re-do spine surgery, where previous open surgery has left scar tissue, riskier to operate through again.“Endoscopic procedures are also used for disc herniation and nerve compression. In certain cases, they may help avoid the need for extensive fusion by preserving the spine’s natural stability. However, the suitability is decided after clinical evaluation, imaging, and assessment of overall health. The technique is not suitable for all patients,” said Keerthivasan P, senior consultant spine and orthopaedic surgeon.Among others, Balamurali, head of department, Spine and Neurosurgery was present. Published - September 12, 2026 12:28 am IST