Hybrid Endoscopic Thoracic Discectomy Using Robotic Arm and Navigation for Highly Migrated Calcified Disc Herniation

This video provides a step-by-step guide for performing the hybrid endoscopic thoracic discectomy using navigation and robotic arm for addressing high migrated calcified disc herniation. With the development of techniques, endoscopic spine surgery has emerged as a reliable treatment for thoracic myelopathy. This approach offers high-resolution, off-axis visualization of the surgical field. The field is poised to advance further as endoscopic instruments are refined, becoming less invasive and more precise through the integration of navigation and robot-assisted systems. A 62-year-old woman presented to us with chief complaints of both legs weakness. She had difficulty standing and walking after squatted due to weakness in her legs and her Oswestry Disability Index score was 66. On examination her both side knee extension and ankle dorsiflexion were grade 4 without dysesthesia. The imaging examination confirmed the diagnosis of thoracic myelopathy caused by a highly migrated calcified disc herniation at T5–6 level. The patient underwent an endoscopic thoracic discectomy using robotic arm and navigation for addressing highly migrated calcified disc herniation, resulting in an excellent outcome. The continuous development of navigation and robotic systems in endoscopic thoracic surgery enhanced accuracy in surgical incisions and instrument placement, as well as improved efficiency in locating pathology and achieving precise decompression. Endoscopic thoracic discectomy combines full-endoscopy and unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) techniques to leverage the benefits of both approaches, including the cross-viewing of full-endoscopy cannula and the use of larger Kerrison rongeurs under UBE.