AdventHealth Avista has performed its first endoscopic spine surgery, marking a new development in minimally invasive procedures for patients in Colorado. The operation was carried out by Dr. Chris Talbot, a board-certified neurosurgeon.
Dr. Talbot described the main difference between this and traditional surgeries: “The biggest difference is how we access the spine and how much tissue we disturb getting there,” he said. “With endoscopic surgery, I’m working through an incision smaller than a centimeter, about the size of your pinky fingernail.”
The procedure uses a 4K ultra high-definition endoscopic system that allows for precise visualization and treatment of compressed nerves or herniated discs. Specialized instruments enable navigation around critical structures such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Dr. Talbot explained, “Those tissues are essential for long-term stability and function. Preserving them means patients recover faster and do better over time.”
Patients who undergo this type of surgery can expect to recover more quickly than with traditional methods. According to Dr. Talbot, “Most go home the same day or after just an overnight stay. Postoperative pain is significantly less, studies show up to a 50% reduction compared to open surgery. Many patients are walking comfortably within hours and returning to daily activities within days instead of weeks.” He also noted that infection risk is much lower—up to 16 times less than conventional approaches—but emphasized that not every patient is suitable for the procedure: “Not everyone is a candidate. I spend time understanding each patient’s symptoms, imaging, and goals to ensure the right procedure at the right time.”
To prepare for offering this technique at AdventHealth Avista, Dr. Talbot trained under leaders in endoscopic spine surgery during his fellowship at Emory University and participated in more than 40 cases involving different parts of the spine. The hospital’s team—including anesthesia staff, operating room personnel, and nurses—also received specialized training.
“It really takes an entire team working together,” Dr. Talbot said about bringing this new capability to the hospital. “We’ve been deliberate and methodical in our preparation because patient safety is paramount.”
Dr. Talbot believes this approach aligns with Colorado residents’ active lifestyles: “Colorado residents value staying active and getting outdoors,” he said. “This technique supports that lifestyle. It’s also ideal for elderly patients or those with medical conditions who need a safer, less invasive approach.” He added that his goal is always tailored care: “Spine care is complex and nuanced… My goal is to solve each patient’s problem with the least invasive approach that will actually work for their specific situation.”
AdventHealth Avista joins other hospitals under AdventHealth’s network focused on innovation in patient care; AdventHealth Orlando was founded in 1908 in Orlando, Florida, serves as both a pediatric facility and training hospital, and is currently led by President Terry Shaw.
