9 December, 2025

barnaclínic+ incorporates two advanced spinal surgery techniques for faster and less invasive recovery

The Neurosurgery Department at barnaclínic+ has incorporated two of the most innovative techniques for the treatment of lumbar spine pathologies: lumbar endoscopic surgery and the lumbar FFX system for facet fixation. Both techniques, part of the team’s commitment to minimally invasive surgery, help minimize the consequences of lumbar spine surgery, reduce recovery time and, in many cases, avoid more aggressive procedures such as traditional lumbar arthrodesis with screws.

Endoscopic lumbar surgery: minimal aggression, maximum effectiveness

The barnaclínic+ neurosurgeons, specialists from the Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, have been pioneers in Spain in the routine use of lumbar endoscopic spine surgery. This technique allows the treatment of disc herniations and lumbar canal stenosis through an incision smaller than 1 cm, without damaging muscles or bone structures, thus avoiding many of the consequences associated with a traditional spine operation with screws.

The procedure is performed using a high-precision endoscope, which allows safe and effective access to the disc or lumbar canal. Its advantages include fast recovery, reduced postoperative pain, an almost invisible scar and less need for analgesics after surgery.

“Endoscopic spine surgery allows us to operate with minimal aggression, reducing risks and improving recovery times, without compromising surgical effectiveness.”

Dr. Abel Ferrés

In many cases, this technique helps avoid the need for L4–L5–S1 lumbar arthrodesis, a more invasive surgery associated with functional limitations, prolonged sick leave, and risks such as residual pain, stiffness or hyperlordosis. Endoscopic surgery is especially beneficial for patients with lumbar disc herniation, foraminal stenosis or a narrow lumbar canal.

FFX lumbar system: a minimally invasive alternative to arthrodesis

The second technique recently incorporated is the FFX (Facet Fixation) system, an innovative solution to stabilize facet joints affected by lumbar osteoarthritis, mild spondylolisthesis or chronic facet pain. Unlike conventional lumbar arthrodesis, the FFX system allows stabilization without screws or interbody fusion, using less invasive approaches.

“The lumbar FFX system offers a safe and effective alternative to arthrodesis in selected patients, avoiding many of the complications and limitations associated with conventional screw-based surgery.”

Dr. Josep González

This system is particularly suitable for patients with previous arthrodesis, older adults, or cases in which preserving part of lumbar mobility is desirable. By avoiding complete fusion, it reduces sequelae such as loss of mobility, chronic pain, muscular complications and the need for future reoperations. It also significantly shortens recovery time.

Commitment to minimally invasive surgery and personalized treatment

With the incorporation of lumbar endoscopic surgery and the FFX system, the barnaclínic+ Neurosurgery Department strengthens its commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care. These techniques help avoid or minimize the need for interventions such as lumbar spine surgery with screws, reducing surgical impact, improving quality of life and facilitating faster return to daily activities.

barnaclínic+ consolidates itself as a reference center for spine surgery in Barcelona, with a clear focus on personalized medicine and the use of advanced techniques for the treatment of lumbar pain, spinal stenosis, lumbar osteoarthritis and other spinal conditions.

If you are considering surgery for a disc herniation, chronic lumbar pain or stenosis, our neurosurgery team can help you find the best solution.