Percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD) relieves pressure on the nerves and alleviates pain by transmitting laser energy via thin optical fibers into the disc. The minimally invasive procedure of laser vaporization aims to significantly reduce patient pain and restore neurological function. Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby conducts the procedure under local anesthesia. Using a laser specifically designed for spinal procedures, Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby specifies the type of vertebrae being treated on the laser's screen to provide the device with all necessary information. The laser device delivers a specific amount of heat to vaporize water from the disc without causing additional thermal damage, relieving pressure and creating a stable scar within the disc that prevents the recurrence of herniation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved laser disc vaporization and the American Medical Association has recognized it. During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the herniated disc under X-ray guidance. The needle introduces optical fibers, which transmit laser energy in pulses, vaporizing a small portion of the disc nucleus within 4 to 5 minutes. This creates a partial vacuum that pulls the herniation away from the nerve root, relieving pressure and alleviating pain. The effect is typically immediate. Patients then get up and go home, starting gradual walking. There is no need for hospitalization or a lengthy recovery period, and the cost is lower than that of surgery.
• Laser protective glasses.
• High-quality optical fibers (400 micrometers/600 micrometers) for single medical use, especially for each patient.
• 18-gauge needle.
• Most people recover quickly and return to work in four to five days.
• Highly effective, achieving excellent results.
• Performed under local anesthesia, not general anesthesia.
• The surgical technique is safe and rapid, leaving no incisions or scars because it only uses a thin needle.
• Only a small portion of the disc evaporates, preventing subsequent spinal instability. Unlike open lumbar disc surgery, there is no damage to back muscles, no removal of bone, and no large skin incision.
• Patients at higher risk for open discectomy, including those with diabetes, heart disease, and decreased liver or kidney function, can benefit from this effective solution.
• No bleeding or complications that may occur with open surgery.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved laser disc vaporization and the American Medical Association has recognized it. During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the herniated disc under X-ray guidance. The needle introduces optical fibers, which transmit laser energy in pulses, vaporizing a small portion of the disc nucleus within 4 to 5 minutes. This creates a partial vacuum that pulls the herniation away from the nerve root, relieving pressure and alleviating pain. The effect is typically immediate. Patients then get up and go home, starting gradual walking. There is no need for hospitalization or a lengthy recovery period, and the cost is lower than that of surgery.
The laser system for disc vaporization includes the following components:
• A medical dual laser therapy device.• Laser protective glasses.
• High-quality optical fibers (400 micrometers/600 micrometers) for single medical use, especially for each patient.
• 18-gauge needle.
Advantages of laser treatment for herniated discs:
• Patients leave the operating room with a small adhesive bandage after a minimally invasive procedure that doesn't require hospitalization.• Most people recover quickly and return to work in four to five days.
• Highly effective, achieving excellent results.
• Performed under local anesthesia, not general anesthesia.
• The surgical technique is safe and rapid, leaving no incisions or scars because it only uses a thin needle.
• Only a small portion of the disc evaporates, preventing subsequent spinal instability. Unlike open lumbar disc surgery, there is no damage to back muscles, no removal of bone, and no large skin incision.
• Patients at higher risk for open discectomy, including those with diabetes, heart disease, and decreased liver or kidney function, can benefit from this effective solution.
• No bleeding or complications that may occur with open surgery.
When it comes to back pain and discomfort, two common conditions stand out, spinal stenosis and herniated disc. Although they both affect the spine and exhibit similar symptoms, there are clear differences in their causes and treatment options. Understanding these differences is essential for effective diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
In contrast, a herniated disc can lead to spinal stenosis, causing pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord. A herniated disc is one of the potential causes of spinal stenosis, but there are many other conditions that can also lead to this narrowing.
The difference between the symptoms of spinal stenosis and herniated disc:
Spinal stenosis:
It is a condition in which there is a narrowing of the spinal canal or the openings through which the nerves pass. This narrowing can lead to pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves, causing a sensation of pain or discomfort that may extend to the legs or arms, reaching the hands or feet. Patients with spinal stenosis often experience pain while walking or moving, while they may feel relief when sitting, as sitting helps alleviate that pain.Herniated disc:
When the disc that acts as a cushion between the vertebrae is damaged, the cartilage is pushed outward, which may compress the spinal cord, leading to localized inflammation. This inflammation can irritate the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas. Patients with a herniated disc experience pain while sitting or sleeping, and the pain is often constant. Other symptoms may include sciatica, muscle spasms, and weakness in the leg or muscles. Muscle weakness can cause the patient to stumble and may affect their ability to carry or lift objects.In contrast, a herniated disc can lead to spinal stenosis, causing pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord. A herniated disc is one of the potential causes of spinal stenosis, but there are many other conditions that can also lead to this narrowing.
The difference between the treatment of spinal stenosis and herniated disc:
Several treatments are available for both conditions, with the approach varying based on the severity of the symptoms. Now, for the first time in Egypt, thanks to the expertise of Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, advanced treatment options have become available. Herniated discs can be treated using Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD) without surgery, while spinal canal stenosis is treated through Spinal Decompression procedure for widening the spinal stenosis using artificial intelligence and 3D printing, according to global standards.
Herniated discs are among the most common conditions affecting the spinal cord (cervical or lumbar spine). Recent technological advancements have been essential in improving the treatment of herniated discs. The development of modern devices has led to significant improvements in treating such cases.
• In the past, surgeons performed open surgery called laminectomy to treat disc herniation. However, since laminectomy caused patients to suffer from numerous problems, minimally invasive techniques began to emerge.
• Initially, a substance that could destroy tissue was injected into the herniated disc, but this procedure led to some issues as it could not precisely control the extent of disc destruction; thus, this method was excluded.
• Specialists then introduced open disc surgery using a microscope. This procedure is similar to laminectomy, although it leaves a small incision, resulting in less bone damage and instability. However, open discectomy still exposes patients to some complications, the most serious of which is infection.
• Subsequently, disc vaporization was introduced without causing bone or muscle damage. This reduces the pressure within the disc without harming surrounding tissues, a critical aspect that contributed to the unique features of this technique.
Disc vaporization does not cause fibrosis or instability of the spinal cord; thus, patients do not need to use screws and plates. Additionally, hospitalization is unnecessary, as the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
Laser treatment of herniated discs involves the insertion of a catheter through the skin. The catheter consists of a small TV camera, laser fibers, and irrigation tubes, allowing the surgeon to maneuver the tip of the laser fibers as needed.
Once the catheter is inserted, Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, examines the herniated disc via video for a clear picture of the problem. Using the laser beam, the damaged sections of the herniated spinal disc are shrunk, reducing disc pressure and providing immediate pain relief for the patient.
The irrigation system ensures that the laser light does not affect the area beyond what the surgeon requires, as the liquid medium created within the spinal disc helps maintain the temperature inside the disc within the appropriate range.
• In the past, surgeons performed open surgery called laminectomy to treat disc herniation. However, since laminectomy caused patients to suffer from numerous problems, minimally invasive techniques began to emerge.
• Initially, a substance that could destroy tissue was injected into the herniated disc, but this procedure led to some issues as it could not precisely control the extent of disc destruction; thus, this method was excluded.
• Specialists then introduced open disc surgery using a microscope. This procedure is similar to laminectomy, although it leaves a small incision, resulting in less bone damage and instability. However, open discectomy still exposes patients to some complications, the most serious of which is infection.
• Subsequently, disc vaporization was introduced without causing bone or muscle damage. This reduces the pressure within the disc without harming surrounding tissues, a critical aspect that contributed to the unique features of this technique.
Disc vaporization does not cause fibrosis or instability of the spinal cord; thus, patients do not need to use screws and plates. Additionally, hospitalization is unnecessary, as the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
Laser treatment of herniated discs involves the insertion of a catheter through the skin. The catheter consists of a small TV camera, laser fibers, and irrigation tubes, allowing the surgeon to maneuver the tip of the laser fibers as needed.
Once the catheter is inserted, Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, examines the herniated disc via video for a clear picture of the problem. Using the laser beam, the damaged sections of the herniated spinal disc are shrunk, reducing disc pressure and providing immediate pain relief for the patient.
The irrigation system ensures that the laser light does not affect the area beyond what the surgeon requires, as the liquid medium created within the spinal disc helps maintain the temperature inside the disc within the appropriate range.
Spinal stenosis can lead to discomfort and significant mobility issues. With aging and the increasing number of people engaging in activities that strain the back, understanding the injury associated with this condition becomes increasingly vital. Researches indicate that spinal stenosis affects a significant proportion of the elderly and often leads to bothersome symptoms that impact daily life.
• This significant increase highlights the importance of awareness regarding the effects of aging on neurological health and calls for the urgent need for early diagnosis and appropriate care. Ignoring the pain associated with spinal stenosis can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage, and in some cases, may result in paralysis, making surgical treatment more difficult and complex.
• Many patients feel worried when facing the need for spinal decompression surgery, as statistics indicate that traditional surgery may result in surgical screw placement errors ranging from 10% to 20%, leading to the risk of spinal cord damage or compression and consequently the possibility of paralysis.
However, thanks to the leadership of Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, it is now possible to perform spinal decompression surgery without any errors in screw placement for the first time in Egypt. This is possible using the latest technologies in artificial intelligence and 3D printing, which increases the rates of complete recovery to as high as 90% and ensures the full safety of patients.
Incidence rate of spinal stenosis:
• Spinal stenosis is a common health issue that increases with age. According to statistics, approximately 5% of people in their forties suffer from this condition, and by the age of fifty to sixty, this percentage rises to 10%. For those over sixty-five, the rate reaches 15%.• This significant increase highlights the importance of awareness regarding the effects of aging on neurological health and calls for the urgent need for early diagnosis and appropriate care. Ignoring the pain associated with spinal stenosis can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage, and in some cases, may result in paralysis, making surgical treatment more difficult and complex.
Can spinal stenosis be cured?
• Complete treatment of spinal stenosis may not be possible without surgery. However, non-surgical treatments can significantly contribute to alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients. These treatments include a variety of options such as physical therapy, pain-relieving medications, and lifestyle changes, which help temporarily relieve pain. However, to permanently treat spinal stenosis, surgery is necessary to widen the constriction.• Many patients feel worried when facing the need for spinal decompression surgery, as statistics indicate that traditional surgery may result in surgical screw placement errors ranging from 10% to 20%, leading to the risk of spinal cord damage or compression and consequently the possibility of paralysis.
However, thanks to the leadership of Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, it is now possible to perform spinal decompression surgery without any errors in screw placement for the first time in Egypt. This is possible using the latest technologies in artificial intelligence and 3D printing, which increases the rates of complete recovery to as high as 90% and ensures the full safety of patients.
Neck pain is a common condition that affects millions of people and often hinders daily activities. Although persistent neck pain can be bothersome, it may arise from various causes, including poor posture, injury, and underlying medical conditions.
There are many potential causes of neck pain, including:
• Aging: As people age, natural wear and tear can lead to the degeneration of parts of the spinal column in the neck, resulting in pain. Some conditions, such as arthritis and spinal stenosis, can cause neck pain. Over time, the intervertebral discs in the spine may weaken, resulting in a herniated disc and pressure on the nerves.
• Physical strain: Overuse of the neck muscles during repetitive or strenuous activities can lead to stiffness and pain. Additionally, poor posture, weak muscles, and weight gain can affect the alignment of the spine, contributing to neck pain. For example, bending for prolonged periods to view a computer or phone screen is a common cause of neck pain.
Is neck pain common?
Neck pain affects a significant percentage, reaching up to 85% of individuals across various age groups, making it one of the most common health issues. Additionally, studies indicate that 5% of people may experience occasional neck pain at any moment. These statistics highlight the prevalence of this problem and its impact on individuals' daily lives, as symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that may affect the ability to engage in usual activities.What are the causes of neck pain?
The neck is composed of vertebrae that extend from the skull to the upper part of the body, with cartilage acting as a shock absorber between these bones. The bones, ligaments, and muscles in the neck support the head and allow its free movement. Any inflammation or injury can lead to pain or stiffness in the neck area.There are many potential causes of neck pain, including:
• Aging: As people age, natural wear and tear can lead to the degeneration of parts of the spinal column in the neck, resulting in pain. Some conditions, such as arthritis and spinal stenosis, can cause neck pain. Over time, the intervertebral discs in the spine may weaken, resulting in a herniated disc and pressure on the nerves.
• Physical strain: Overuse of the neck muscles during repetitive or strenuous activities can lead to stiffness and pain. Additionally, poor posture, weak muscles, and weight gain can affect the alignment of the spine, contributing to neck pain. For example, bending for prolonged periods to view a computer or phone screen is a common cause of neck pain.
What are the treatment methods for neck pain?
Improper postures can lead to cervical disc herniation and home treatments such as heat therapy and physical therapy may be used. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary if traditional treatments fail. Although surgery for cervical disc herniation carries various risks, the expertise of Dr. Hussien El-Maghraby; Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom, has led to the development of a minimally invasive technique using laser technology. This allows for the treatment of herniation without the need for traditional surgery, which could affect swallowing or the vocal cords.
The minimally invasive spinal surgery technique aims to access the spine by reducing the impact on surrounding muscles and tissues. In the traditional open surgery approach, the surgeon makes a long incision in the skin, necessitating the retraction of a significant amount of muscle and surrounding soft tissue to ensure a clear view of the surgical site. Open surgery can lead to longer recovery times and increased postoperative pain.
2. Many patients experience noticeable improvement on the same day of their minimally invasive surgery, while others begin to feel better within two to three weeks, which contributes to achieving a recovery rate of up to 95%. Studies related to traditional open surgeries indicate that about 20 to 40% of patients may experience complications after the procedure.
3. This procedure offers a shorter recovery time, allowing patients to return to their normal lives more quickly compared to open surgery. Consequently, patients do not need to disrupt their activities and daily lives for an extended period.
4. This technique is characterized by having fewer scars or just one scar instead of the large scar that occurs in traditional surgery, which reduces the risk of infection and blood loss during the procedure.
What are the benefits of the minimally invasive technique?
1. In minimally invasive surgery, one or more incisions are made in the skin. A small metal tube or endoscope is inserted through this incision, allowing the procedure to be performed in a smaller surgical field. This significantly reduces damage to the muscles, soft tissues, and skin. Typically, recovery time is shorter with this type of procedure.2. Many patients experience noticeable improvement on the same day of their minimally invasive surgery, while others begin to feel better within two to three weeks, which contributes to achieving a recovery rate of up to 95%. Studies related to traditional open surgeries indicate that about 20 to 40% of patients may experience complications after the procedure.
3. This procedure offers a shorter recovery time, allowing patients to return to their normal lives more quickly compared to open surgery. Consequently, patients do not need to disrupt their activities and daily lives for an extended period.
4. This technique is characterized by having fewer scars or just one scar instead of the large scar that occurs in traditional surgery, which reduces the risk of infection and blood loss during the procedure.