Patrick Y Kim, MD

Endoscopy enables spine surgeries with quarter-inch incisions, resulting in less trauma to muscles and ligaments. As a result, patients benefit from quicker recovery in outpatient settings. Most disc herniations can now be treated without the need for drilling into the bony elements.

My path to becoming a spine surgeon started during a time marked by complications like infections and spinal instability, even for minor procedures. I concentrated on refining minimally invasive techniques, employing tools like tubular retractors and microscopes, which are currently gaining recognition.

During my residency, I suffered from an L5/S1 herniated disc, which led me to explore even less invasive approaches, such as endoscopy. Learning from pioneers around the world, I subsequently dedicated my fellowship to mastering these techniques.

To the best of my knowledge, I am the sole fellowship-trained endoscopic spine surgeon in the region and am thrilled to introduce this cutting-edge technology to the Tampa area.