A new technique aimed at smoothening the spinal surgery procedure has been designed at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, authorities there said on Monday.
Satnam Device for Endoscopic Surgery designed at the hospital is a special tube which is placed into the patient's back through a minor cut in the skin. The entire surgery is performed through the tube under endoscopic view on Light-Emitting Diode(LED) monitor.
Hospital authorities said that unlike the other existing modern techniques, the Satnam device gives enormous magnification and clarity of vision, which in turn minimizes the risk to normal and critical nerves.
The device has been developed by Satnam Singh Chhabra, director of the Neuro and Spine Department at the hospital.
Chhabra said that the new device is extremely helpful in the treatment of slipped disc -- also known as prolapsed or herniated nerve which happens when one of the discs that sit between the bones of the spine (the vertebrae) is damaged and presses on the nerves.
According to the health ministry slipped disc is a common problem in the age group of 30-50 years and affects approximately 3 percent of the total population in India.
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Medical science has also come to the conclusion that slipped disc is now not only restricted to a specific age-group but is also common among people whose occupation involves frequent bending and lifting.
Talking about the benefits of the technique, Chhabra said: "The surgery grants patients the relief to go back home within 12-24 hours of being operated. Additionally, such patients can also easily walk and use the toilet the very same day. Besides, they can easily resume office in a few days time."
"The device is being used in many hospitals of the country," Chhabra said.