Dr. Amin is an expert surgeon specializing in endoscopic spine surgery and spine oncology.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
The least invasive, most technologically advanced spine surgery technique.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
The least invasive, most technologically advanced spine surgery technique.
Endoscopic spine surgery at UW Medicine
UW Medicine spine surgeons are national and international leaders in endoscopic spine procedures. These techniques are the most minimally invasive spine surgery techniques available.
Visit the Spine Surgery page »
What is endoscopic spine surgery?
During endoscopic spine surgery, a surgeon uses a small, high-definition camera and other specialized tools through an endoscope to assist in repairing the spine. This allows for a smaller incision, typically less than an inch. It can be used on its own or as an additional tool during surgery to treat back pain from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis and synovial cysts.
ABOUT US
Why choose UW Medicine
With spine surgery, experience matters. UW Medicine is one of the first programs in the United States to address problems in the entire spine with endoscopic procedures. With our surgeons at the forefront of this new technology, we can create the best treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
The latest technology – both during and after your surgery
After surgery, you can choose to have direct access to your care team through our custom mobile app created by UW Medicine doctors and researchers. With the app, you can chat with your doctor about recovery, share achievements with your healthcare team, and receive tips and resources designed to get you back on your feet. The app adds convenience and personalized care. In fact, many patients can skip in-person, follow-up office visits after surgery.
Conditions we treat
Our team is trained in endoscopic techniques for the full spine, including:
- Cervical spine conditions
- Thoracic spine conditions
- Lumbar spine conditions
Endoscopic spine surgery procedures are not suitable for all patients. As with any surgical procedure, talk with your surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for this technique. In general, these techniques work well for patients who:
- Have not found relief with conservative therapy
- Have specific spinal conditions that respond well to endoscopic surgery, such as disc herniation or spinal stenosis
- Have not had repeat back surgeries or multiple incisions
- Have no disqualifying health conditions
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Anubhav Amin, MD
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Christoph P. Hofstetter, MD
Dr. Hofstetter is internationally regarded for his research and expertise in endoscopic procedures.
Mahesh Karandikar, MD
Mahesh Karandikar, MD
Dr. Karandikar treats a range of spine conditions and is an expert in endoscopic spine surgery.
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Imad Khan, MD
Dr. Khan’s specialization includes intricate spinal surgery procedures, with an emphasis on endoscopic spine surgery.
Benefits of endoscopic spine surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery typically lasts one to two hours. That means less pain and a faster recovery. In fact, most patients leave the hospital within two to three hours after surgery. These procedures, when done by an experienced surgeon like those at UW Medicine, can provide several other benefits, including:
- Diminished damage to healthy tissues (such as muscles and ligaments)
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Maintaining spine stability and avoiding the need for more involved fusion surgeries
- Reduced pain after surgery (lowering the need for opioid pain mediation in many patients)
- A faster return to your regular exercise and work activities
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Spine Center at Harborview
Learn about this location near downtown Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood »
Fax 206.744.9937
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Spine Center at UW Medical Center – Northwest
Learn about this location in Seattle’s Northgate neighborhood »
Fax 206.363.0019