Keyhole Spine Surgery in London

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Modern spinal surgery has evolved dramatically, and keyhole spine surgery represents a significant advancement in treating disc problems and nerve compression.

Dr Purnajyoti Banerjee, recognised as one of the best spinal surgeons in London, specialises in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques that allow faster recovery and less disruption to your daily life.

What Is Keyhole Spine Surgery?

Keyhole spine surgery uses a minimally invasive (‘keyhole’) approach with a small incision—typically 2-3cm rather than the 8-10cm required for traditional open surgery. This modern technique results in less muscle disruption and reduced post-operative pain, helping patients return to normal activities more quickly.

The procedure utilises endoscopic techniques, including a camera and specialised instruments, to perform precise work through a small opening. Endoscopic spine surgery is particularly effective for conditions where nerve compression causes debilitating symptoms.

When Is Keyhole Spine Surgery Recommended?

Keyhole spine surgery is recommended when nerve compression causes persistent pain, weakness, or mobility limitation that does not improve with conservative treatment. It is typically considered after physiotherapy, medication, or injections fail to provide lasting relief.

Ideal Candidate Criteria

Herniated disc causing sciatica or arm pain

Spinal stenosis with walking difficulty

Trapped nerves producing numbness or weakness

Chronic symptoms affecting daily function

Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Techniques

Minimally invasive spine surgery is used for common nerve compression conditions that cause persistent leg pain and mobility limitation.

Herniated Disc and Sciatica

The most frequent application is microdiscectomy (keyhole discectomy), which treats sciatica and leg pain caused by a slipped (herniated) disc.

A microdiscectomy to remove the disc fragment pressing on the nerve relieves compression whilst preserving the healthy portion of the disc.

Relieves nerve compression

Preserves healthy disc tissue

Spinal Stenosis

Keyhole decompression for spinal stenosis (trapped nerve symptoms) widens the space around compressed nerves.

This spinal decompression surgery (keyhole) removes bone spurs or thickened ligament causing narrowing, providing relief from leg pain, cramping, or walking difficulties.

Creates space for compressed nerves

Reduces leg pain and walking difficulty

Keyhole vs Traditional Open Surgery

Aspect	Keyhole Surgery	Traditional Open Surgery
Incision Size	2-3cm	8-10cm
Posterior	Back of neck	Certain deformities
Hospital Stay	Same day or 1 night	2-3 nights typically
Recovery Time	2-4 weeks	6-12 weeks
Pain Medication	Less required	Higher doses needed

For suitable patients, day-case spine surgery (same-day discharge, where appropriate) is available, allowing you to recover at home within hours of the procedure.

What to Expect: Recovery Timeline

Expected recovery timeline and return to work guidance vary by individual, but most patients follow this pattern:

Healing Timeline

Week 1-2: Walking encouraged; avoid bending, lifting, or twisting; most pain medication tapered off
Week 2-4: Return to desk work possible; light household tasks resumed; driving when comfortable (usually 1-2 weeks)

Week 4-8: Physical work gradually resumed; physiotherapy intensified; normal daily activities restored
Week 8-12: Return to sports and vigorous activities; full recovery for most patients

The minimally invasive nature means significantly faster rehabilitation compared to traditional techniques.

Benefits of Keyhole Spine Surgery

When performed by Dr Purnajyoti Banerjee, the best spinal surgeon in London, it combines advanced imaging and microsurgical techniques to maximise safety and outcomes.

Smaller incision and less muscle damage

Reduced pain and faster recovery

Lower risk of complications

Shorter hospital stay and rehabilitation time

Seeking a Spine Care Surgeon in London

As a consultant spine surgeon in London, Dr Purnajyoti Banerjee delivers safe and effective treatment from the first consultation to recovery.

Many locals trust him and see him as one of the best spinal surgeons in London, offering clear planning, evidence-based decisions, and personalised surgical care focused on long-term results.