Doha, November 04, 2026 : The Orthopedic Surgery Department at Hamad Medical Corporation's (HMC) Hamad General Hospital (HGH) has expanded its use of advanced endoscopic techniques to treat selected spinal conditions, including herniated discs and spinal canal stenosis.
The minimally invasive procedures are performed in line with international standards and allow surgeons to carry out complex operations through an incision measuring no more than one centimetre, offering an alternative to conventional techniques and open surgery.
Head of HMC's Orthopedic Surgery Department Dr. Faisal Al Shammari said the expansion reflects the corporation's efforts to enhance specialized medical services and adopt advanced surgical technologies. He added that the approach provides patients with additional treatment options while reducing the impact of surgery and maintaining a focus on patient safety and quality of care.
Consultant Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon at HMC Dr. Basim Shaman Ameen explained that the procedure involves inserting a thin tube fitted with a high-definition camera through a small incision in the patient's back or side. The location of the incision depends on the condition being treated and the type of procedure required.
Images transmitted to a monitor enable surgeons to view the affected area clearly and use specialized instruments to remove tissue compressing the nerves with precision.
He added that the technique uses a continuous fluid-flow system to maintain visibility and a clear surgical field, alongside advanced methods for controlling bleeding. These measures help preserve the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the spine while reducing the physical impact of the operation.
Compared with procedures that rely on a surgical microscope, endoscopic techniques offer several potential benefits, including reduced postoperative pain, less blood loss and tissue damage, and faster recovery of mobility.
Dr. Ameen noted that patients whose condition is stable following surgery and medical assessment may be discharged on the same day without an overnight hospital stay. Some may also be able to stand and walk within hours of the procedure.
Patients are advised to resume daily activities gradually, following their medical team's guidance and taking into account the nature of their individual cases.
The medical team determines whether endoscopic surgery is appropriate for each patient based on the diagnosis, medical investigations and extent of nerve involvement, ensuring that treatment is tailored to the patient's condition.
Source: QNA
