Spine · Lumbar

Endoscopic lumbar decompression

Endoscopic lumbar decompression uses a small camera and tubular instruments to relieve pressure on lumbar nerves caused by spinal stenosis or disc herniation, with a smaller incision than traditional open decompression. Consultations with our fellowship-trained neurosurgeon in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. Most patients go home the same day, with light walking on day one; return to desk work is typically 1–2 weeks, and physical labour or high-impact sport 6–12 weeks.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230

Most patients home same day
Muscle-sparing approach
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

Physiotherapist guiding an older patient through rehabilitation exercises

5.0 from 250+ reviews

Muscle-sparing approach

Patient stories

Recovery, in their words.

5.0 from 250+ patient reviews

The procedure—a micro spinal decompression to treat severe spinal stenosis causing significant back and leg pain—was a complete success. All symptoms were eliminated immediately following the surgery, which is a testament to Dr. Massicotte’s expertise. Pathway Surgery took care of all logistical details, including limousine transportation and hotel accommodations.

Ray Hindy

Micro spinal decompression

Dr Massicotte did a minimally invasive lumber laminectomy on L4-5 causing severe pain in my leg. The surgery went well and I could walk with no pain. From my very first call to Pathway and my surgery it was less than one month! I thank DR Massicotte and the team at Pathway for giving me back my freedom to walk again.

Kevin Kraemer

Minimally invasive laminectomy

What is endoscopic lumbar decompression?

Endoscopic lumbar decompression is a minimally invasive procedure to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis or disc herniation. The goal is to create more space for the nerves while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the lower back and gently separates the muscles rather than cutting through them. An endoscope or operating microscope provides a magnified view of the surgical area, allowing for precise removal of bone and soft tissue compressing the nerve.

Common indications

Lumbar spinal stenosis
Disc herniation
Radiculopathy (leg pain)
Neurogenic claudication

Surgical technology

OHX microscope system.

Advanced visualization for precision spine surgery.

Our neurosurgeon operates with the OHX surgical microscope system, providing a magnified, high-definition view of the surgical area for precise decompression of the affected nerve.

High-definition visualization — magnified 3D view of neural structures
MIS burrs — targeted bone removal with specialized instruments
Muscle-sparing approach — muscles are separated, not cut

OHX Microscope System

Advanced visualization for precision spine surgery. The microscope provides a magnified view of neural structures while specialized MIS instruments remove only the tissue compressing the nerve.

Surgical technique

The procedure, step by step.

1

Small incision

A small incision is made in the lower back
2

Muscle separation

Muscles are gently separated rather than cut to access the spine
3

Visualization

An endoscope or microscope provides a magnified view of the surgical area
4

Decompression

Bone and soft tissue compressing the nerve are carefully removed
5

Confirmation & closure

The surgeon confirms the nerve has adequate space and closes the incision

Your surgeon

Our spine specialist.

Fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery.

Dr. Eric Massicotte, MD, FRCSC

Minimally invasive spine neurosurgery · UofT Associate Professor

Dr. Massicotte practises minimally invasive spine neurosurgery with over 20 years of experience in complex spine surgery, and serves as Official Surgeon of the Toronto Argonauts.

Fellowship-trained spine neurosurgeon
Associate Professor, University of Toronto
20+ years of experience in complex spine surgery
Official Surgeon of the Toronto Argonauts

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Endoscopic lumbar decompression is commonly used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis, disc herniation, radiculopathy (leg pain from nerve compression), and neurogenic claudication (pain with walking due to spinal narrowing). Your surgeon will review your imaging to confirm you are a suitable candidate.

Endoscopic lumbar decompression typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the complexity of the case and the number of levels being addressed. Because it is minimally invasive, many patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay for observation.

Most patients can walk within hours of surgery. Light daily activities can often resume within 2-4 weeks, though this varies by individual. Physical therapy may be recommended to help strengthen the back and improve mobility. Full recovery typically takes 6-12 weeks depending on the extent of the procedure.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients experience less post-operative pain compared to traditional open surgery. Pain is typically well-managed with medications, and many patients report significant relief from their pre-operative symptoms within the first few weeks.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our spine specialist to have your condition assessed. Having a recent MRI is helpful but not mandatory—we can arrange imaging if needed.