- Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Dr. Albert P. Wong is a board-certified, dual fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles.
- Endoscopic Spine Surgery Explained
What Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery is the least invasive type of spine surgery available today. It uses a thin tube called an endoscope. The tube has a high-definition camera and a light. This allows Dr. Wong to treat spine problems through a very small cut, about 8mm, or the size of a fingertip.
During the procedure, Dr. Wong inserts the endoscope through this small cut and gently moves the muscles aside instead of cutting through them as in traditional surgery. The camera shows magnified images on a monitor, giving Dr. Wong a clear view of the spine and the problem area.
Small tools are passed through the endoscope to remove herniated disc material, bone spurs, or thickened ligaments that press on the nerves. After the work is done, Dr. Wong removes the tools and closes the cut with a small stitch.
Traditional spine surgery often needs large cuts, muscle cutting, and general anesthesia. Endoscopic spine surgery can often be done with local anesthesia and sedation, which lowers surgical risks. This helps patients in Los Angeles recover faster and return to active lifestyles sooner.
99%+
Screw Placement Accuracy
- Why Choose Endoscopic Surgery
Benefits of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Lower Infection Risk
The ultra-small incision and minimal tissue disruption greatly reduce the risk of surgical site infection compared to open or traditional MIS procedures.
Tiniest Incision Possible
Incisions are less than ½ inch, smaller than a dime. Many patients leave with just a band-aid, so stitches or staples are not needed.
Same-Day Discharge
Over 90% of endoscopic spine patients go home the same day. Most return to desk work within 1-2 weeks and full activity within 4-6 weeks.
Minimal Blood Loss
The endoscopic approach works through natural tissue planes without cutting muscle. Blood loss is very small, typically less than 25 mL.
No General Anesthesia Required
Many endoscopic procedures can be done with local anesthesia and sedation, avoiding the risks and long recovery of general anesthesia.
Less Post-Op Pain
No muscles are cut, and tissues are preserved. Patients usually have much less post-operative pain and often only need over-the-counter medicine.
- Our Step-by-Step
The Endoscopic Spine Surgery Process
From imaging to band-aid closure, this procedure is designed for precision, minimal disruption, and same-day recovery.
3×
Faster Recovery
Advanced Imaging and Planning
High-resolution MRI and CT scans map the spine in detail. The surgeon finds the exact problem, such as a herniated disc, bone spur, or compressed nerve, and plans the best approach angle.
Guided Entry Point
Using fluoroscopic guidance, the surgeon inserts a small dilator through an incision under ½ inch. No muscles are cut. Soft tissue is gently moved aside to create a path to the problem area.
HD Visualization and Treatment
A high-definition endoscope, which is a tiny camera, is placed through the channel. It shows a clear, magnified view. The surgeon uses small tools to remove disc pieces, relieve pressure on nerves, or treat the problem while watching a live monitor.
Band-Aid Closure and Same-Day Recovery
The endoscope is removed, and the small incision is closed with one stitch or a band-aid. Most patients walk within hours and go home the same day. Daily activities usually resume within 1 to 2 weeks.
- Conditions We Treat
Spinal Conditions Treated with Endoscopic spine surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is ideal for targeted nerve decompression and disc-related conditions throughout the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
Herniated Disc
Endoscopic discectomy removes the herniated part of the disc pressing on a nerve. The incision is smaller than ½ inch.
Sciatica / Radiculopathy
Targeted nerve decompression relieves leg pain, numbness, and tingling caused by pinched nerves in the lower back or neck.
Spinal Stenosis
Endoscopic foraminotomy or laminotomy creates more space for compressed nerves without removing large amounts of bone.
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)
Precise removal of extra bone growth that presses on nerves, using special endoscopic tools.
Foraminal Stenosis
Targeted widening of the neural foramen, the opening where nerves exit the spine, to relieve pressure.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Treatment focuses on painful disc wear using targeted decompression and repair techniques.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Endoscopic revision helps patients with ongoing pain after earlier spine surgery. This approach reduces disruption of scar tissue.
Facet Joint Syndrome
Endoscopic rhizotomy and facet decompression treat chronic back pain from inflamed or arthritic facet joints.
- Your Surgeon
Expert Endoscopic Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles
Meet the best endoscopic spine surgeon in Beverly Hills. Dual fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in advanced endoscopic spine surgery in Los Angeles.
About Dr. Albert P. Wong
Meet Dr. Albert P. Wong, MD
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon & Spine Specialist in Los Angeles, CA
Endoscopic spine surgery treats back and neck pain using tiny incisions and a small camera. This approach reduces tissue damage, scarring, and recovery time, helping patients return to daily activities faster. Dr. Albert P. Wong offers advanced, minimally invasive spine surgery to provide safe, effective relief.
Dr. Wong is a board-certified neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience. He completed fellowships at Stanford and Northwestern, specializes in minimally invasive and complex spine surgery, and has trained other surgeons in advanced techniques. His expertise and patient-focused care make him a trusted spine surgeon in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles.
Board-Certified
Neurosurgeon
Dual Fellowship
Stanford & Northwestern
60+
Publications
20+
Years Experience
Education & Training
Fellowship
Stanford Health Care-Sponsored Stanford University
Neurosurgical Spine Surgery, 2014-2015
Residency
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Residency
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Neurosurgical Spine Surgery, 2012-2013
Medical Degree
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Internship
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Transitional Year, 2007-2008
Core Specialties
Herniated Disc Surgery
Hospital Affiliations
- DOCS Surgical Hospital – Los Angeles, CA
- Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital – Santa Rosa, CA
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – Los Angeles, CA
- UC Irvine Medical Center – Orange, CA
Book a Consultation
- (310) 746-5918
- Mon–Fri, 8 AM – 5 PM
- 8436 W. 3rd St., Suite 800
Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Patient Testimonial
What our patients says
- Area We Serve
Serving Patients Across Greater Los Angeles
Dr. Wong's office is located at 8436 W. 3rd St, Suite 800, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Patients visit from across Southern California and beyond.
Beverly Hills
West Hollywood
Santa Monica
Brentwood
Westwood
Century City
Pacific Palisades
Bel Air
Hollywood
Downtown LA
Pasadena
Glendale
Culver City
Manhattan Beach
Malibu
Encino
Sherman Oaks
Sherman Oaks
- Visit Our Beverly Hills Office
Endoscopic Spine Surgery Clinic in Los Angeles
Dr. Albert P. Wong, MD
8436 W. 3rd St, Suite 800
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone
(310) 746-5918
info@dralbertpwong.com
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: Closed
- Faqs
FAQs About Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Find answers to common questions about Endoscopic Spine Surgery, including the procedure, recovery, risks, and candidacy.
Patients with chronic back or neck pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other conditions who haven’t responded to conservative treatments may be candidates. Dr. Albert P. Wong evaluates each patient individually.
This minimally invasive procedure can treat: degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, radiculopathy, sciatica, and certain cervical spine conditions.
A small incision is made, and an endoscope with a camera allows Dr. Wong to visualize and remove damaged disc fragments or decompress nerves with specialized instruments.
Recovery is typically faster than traditional surgery. Most patients return to normal activities within six weeks, following a personalized rehabilitation plan.
Discomfort is generally minimal due to the small incision and precise technique. Pain is usually managed with medication and proper post-operative care.
Most endoscopic spine procedures are completed within 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of the condition.
Incisions are very small, often 0.5 inches or less, and typically heal within 1–2 weeks, leaving minimal scarring.
Many patients resume light activities within a few days and return to full activity in approximately six weeks, following Dr. Wong’s individualized guidance.