If endoscopic laser spinal surgery is state-of-the-art, how come not so many surgeons perform this type of procedure?
The procedure is getting more and more popular. When the time comes, it will be a standard technique, just like laparoscopic removal of gall bladder and arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery. However, the technique is still in its infancy. Most of the residents in orthopedic spine surgery and neurosurgery graduated without having been exposed to this technique. Furthermore, the learning curve of endoscopic spinal surgery is very steep. To be very good, a surgeon needs not only adequate training and repeated practices but also passion, skills, and intelligence.
