Neuroendoscopy Program

Neuroendoscope - Minimally Invasive Spine and Brain Surgery

The UCLA neuroendoscopy team has treated hundreds of patients since 1993 using this technique.

The neuroendoscope can be used to perform the entire minimally invasive operation, often through a small hole less than the size of a dime, or in combination with the surgical microscope (endoscope-assisted).

Disorders treatable using Neuroendoscopy:

• Hydrocephalus
  • Third ventriculostomy
  • Aqueductoplasty
  • Compartmentalized hydrocephalus
  • Septum pellucidotomy
  • Multicompartment hydrocephalus
  • Ventricular catheter placement
• Colloid cyst removal
• Arachnoid cyst fenestration
• Neurocysticercosis
• Thoracic and lumbar disc removal
• Hyperhidrosis
• Upper limb sympathetic mediated pain.
• Endoscope-assisted surgery
  • Pituitary tumor resection
  • Skull base tumor biopsy
  • Cerebral aneurysms
  • Microvascular decompression
  • Acoustic neuromas

Minimally Invasive Spine and Brain Surgery

• Neuroendoscopy uses small telescopes and high resolution video cameras to look into the skull, brain and spine. Working with these endoscopes, it is now possible to perform many microsurgical operations.
• This minimally invasive neurosurgery has the distinct advantages of a small incision site and minimal trauma to the brain or spinal cord, resulting in a shorter hospital stay for patients and a quicker return to normal activities.
• In some instances, the surgery is substantially shorter than traditional surgical approaches, and in many cases hospitalization and recovery is shortened.
• In selected cases, laser energy is used for tumor or cyst surgery.
• The UCLA neuroendoscopy team is developing new endoscopes and other surgical instruments.

Faculty

Marvin Bergsneider, M.D.
Professor
Co-Director of Neuroendoscopy Program