1. Are there certain types of hernia which cannot be operated endoscopically?Many colleagues still argue, that certain hernia can not be removed endoscopically. This concerns mainly excessively large hernia and hernias with loose sequesters, located in the spinal canal. Sophisticated medical instruments, developed at the Dr. Hoogland Spine Center, and the here invented or improved medical techniques allow access and removal of all hernias – regardless of size and location.
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2. Are there risks involved with an endoscopic procedure?Every surgical procedure bears certain risks, minimal invasive endoscopic procedures, however, have resulted in only minor complications, like haematoma or wound-pain, that, in general, vanish within a few days. Since 1989, more than 8000 endoscopic procedures have been conducted at the Dr. Hoogland Spine Center, Orthopaedic Practise for the Spine. Until today, non of the major complications have occurred. The often dreaded complications in relation with open anterior treatment, for example permanent restriction of nerval functions, scarring and excrescence with post-operative pain, instability of the spine, increased danger of infection, bleeding and paralysis, can be excluded by minimal invasive spine surgery. |
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3. The endoscopic procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, is this painful?Many complications, that can occur under general anaesthesia, can be avoided due to the local anaesthetisation. Along with the local anaesthetisation an intravenous infusion is administered, that positively affects the patients senses and creates an overall pleasant experience. Another advantage of the local anaesthesia is the fast post-operative recovery, due to a lesser strain on the circulation. |
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4. How long will I be off work?The duration depends on the histology and the conducted operative treatment. Many patients are fit to do a few hours of light office work a day just a week following an endoscopic nucleotomy. On average, a full recovery is obtained after around 4 weeks. |
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5. I have already had an (open) operation, is it possible to have a second operation applying the endoscopic technique?Yes, in fact, the endoscopic procedure is especially suitable for second operations. With the endoscopic procedure, we can remove a recurring hernia and also any scar tissue from the first operation. |
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6. My doctor informed me that I have a hernia. Where can I get individual advise. Can I speak to the attending physician?Initially, you can contact us via the telephone or e-mail. We will inform you in detail about the required records (see pain-history-form) and the further approach. Should you already have current MRI, you can post them along with the completed medical history form to receive a noncommittal, written opinion and therapy proposal, including a cost-report. |
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7. How long do I have to wait for an operation date?Under normal circumstances we can arrange an appointment within 2-3 weeks. In acute cases along with strong pain, we can, as an exception, arrange an appointment within just a few days or on the same day. |
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8. Does a private insurance company cover the costs of the operation? How about statutory insurance companies?When it comes to coverage, both private and statutory health insurance companies conduct diversely and often decide individually on the percentage they will cover. Prior to an operation date, our patients receive a written opinion, a therapy proposal and a cost-report for clarification with their insurance company. |
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