Q: I am suffering from a problem of slipped disc since the last 5 years at L5-S1 level. I was doing well, but the pain has again become acute since the last 6 months. I am following a routine of painkillers for the past 4 months. I would like to know: 1) the details of Endoscopic Discectomy, 2) How safe is this procedure? 3) Where all is it done in Delhi? 4) What is the expense for this operation?, 5) Is it safe and effective?

A:There are many variations in endoscopic discectomy, but the method available at Delhi is a variation of microsurgical discectomy and instead of a microscope, an endoscope is used. The incision size would be an inch or less and postoperative pain is less than a conventional exposure. Against this, a classical microsurgical discectomy using an incision 1 inch or less (the same size of exposure) is still the gold standard against which other results are judged. In experienced hands it is as safe as microdiscectomy. This facility is available at AIIMS, Appolo Hospital, Ganga Ram Hospital, Mata Chanan Devi Hospital. The cost would vary from 10,000/- to 1.5 lacs depending where you get it done from.