What is the difference between endoscopic spine surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery?

When it comes to spine surgery, there are two main approaches: endoscopic and minimally invasive. Endoscopic spine surgery uses a small camera, called an endoscope, to visualize the spine. This approach is typically used for diagnostic purposes, such as evaluating a herniated disc. Minimally invasive spine surgery, on the other hand, involves making small incisions in the skin and then using special instruments to access the spine. This approach is often used to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis. While both approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages, minimally invasive surgery is generally associated with shorter hospital stays, less pain, and faster recovery times.