Reamer

A reamer for unilateral portal endoscopic discectomy is a specialized surgical tool used in minimally invasive spinal surgery to treat herniated discs. This procedure involves accessing the spine through a single small incision, or portal, on one side of the body, which is less invasive than traditional open surgery. The reamer is designed to remove or reshape bone and soft tissue, creating sufficient space for the surgeon to access and excise the herniated disc material compressing the spinal nerves.

The reamer typically features a cylindrical or conical shape with cutting edges that allow precise removal of bone or disc tissue. Its design ensures controlled reaming, minimizing damage to surrounding structures. The use of the reamer in this endoscopic technique is facilitated by real-time imaging, often fluoroscopy or endoscopic cameras, providing the surgeon with a clear view of the operative field.

Unilateral portal endoscopic discectomy offers several advantages, including reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery times, and minimal scarring, compared to traditional discectomy methods. The reamer plays a crucial role in this procedure, enabling surgeons to effectively decompress the affected nerves while preserving as much of the normal spinal anatomy as possible.