Spinal endoscopy expands the indications for surgery in the treatment of lower back pain (LBP), because it can address "buldges" not just herniations.  In fact, the more contained a disc is, the better the results.  The best results are in those people who have LBP due to a degenerative or desiccated disc, the so-called black disc.

On a normal, T2, sagittal, MRI image, the disc will appear white, because it is well hydrated.  Loss of signal generally signifies a problem, such as an annular tear.  Until now, treatment for this painful condition was usually conservative, consisting of physical therapy and pain medication.

The surgical solution for the same problems if fusion, either in front with cages, or in back with pedicle screws, or in some cases both!