JACKSON, TN (September 11, 2026) – A new, less-invasive option for treating certain spine conditions is now available in Jackson.
Robert Dunwoody, MD, a West Tennessee Healthcare neurosurgeon, recently became the first physician in Jackson to perform an endoscopic spine procedure using advanced endoscopic technology.
Dr. Dunwoody practices at West Tennessee Medical Group Neuroscience & Spine and specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery, including endoscopic spine procedures.
A Less-Invasive Approach to Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery allows Dr. Dunwoody to reach and treat certain areas of the spine through a very small incision. This approach is designed to minimize disruption to the muscles and tissue surrounding the spine.
The procedure uses specialized technology from Arthrex, including an endoscope approximately the width of a pencil. A high-resolution camera gives the surgeon a direct view of the area being treated.
For some patients, this smaller approach may mean less disruption to surrounding muscles, less postoperative pain and the potential for a faster recovery.
Depending on the procedure and the patient’s individual needs, many endoscopic spine surgeries may also be performed on an outpatient basis.
“This gives us another option for treating patients who may benefit from spine surgery without having to use a more traditional open approach,” said Dr. Dunwoody. “Being able to see and treat the problem through such a small opening allows us to minimize the impact on the healthy tissue around it, which can make a real difference for patients as they recover.”
Conditions Treated With Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery may be an option for certain conditions, including herniated discs and spinal stenosis. Both conditions can cause back pain as well as nerve-related symptoms.
However, endoscopic spine surgery is not appropriate for every patient or every spine condition. Treatment recommendations are based on each patient’s diagnosis, symptoms and individual needs.
Bringing this advanced spine procedure to Jackson is part of Dr. Dunwoody’s focus on using minimally invasive surgical techniques to help patients recover more comfortably and return to their daily activities.
Dr. Robert Dunwoody sees patients at West Tennessee Medical Group Neuroscience & Spine, located at 700 West Forest Avenue in Jackson.
