Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

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What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a surgical technique that uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to treat spinal conditions. This approach minimizes damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues, allowing for quicker recovery, less post-operative pain, and reduced scarring. Minimally invasive surgery can be used for a variety of spinal procedures, including decompression surgeries and spinal fusions.

Why Do I Need Minimally Invasive Surgery?

You might need minimally invasive spine surgery to address various spinal conditions that cause pain, discomfort, or limited mobility. Some common reasons include:

  • Herniated or bulging discs: When a disc in your spine presses on nearby nerves, causing pain or numbness.
  • Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
  • Degenerative disc disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs, leading to pain and reduced flexibility.
  • Spinal fractures: Breaks in the vertebrae due to injury or conditions like osteoporosis.
  • Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips over the one below it, causing pain and instability.
  • Tumors: Abnormal growths in or around the spine that need removal.

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Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive spine surgery offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including:

  • Smaller incisions: This reduces scarring and lowers the risk of infection.
  • Less muscle damage: Traditional surgery often requires cutting through muscle, whereas minimally invasive techniques work around muscles.
  • Shorter hospital stays: Many minimally invasive procedures are performed on an outpatient basis or with shorter hospital stays.
  • Faster recovery: Patients generally experience quicker recovery times and can return to their normal activities sooner.
  • Reduced pain: The less invasive nature of the surgery usually results in less postoperative pain.

These benefits make minimally invasive spine surgery an attractive option for patients seeking effective treatment with fewer drawbacks.

How to Prepare for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Preparation for minimally invasive spine surgery involves a few key steps:

  1. Preoperative evaluation: Your surgeon will assess your overall health, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
  2. Medication review: You’ll need to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re taking. Some may need to be stopped before surgery.
  3. Lifestyle adjustments: Smoking cessation, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling chronic conditions (like diabetes) are important to optimize your recovery.
  4. Preoperative instructions: You’ll receive specific instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before surgery and any other necessary preparations.

What to Expect During Surgery

During minimally invasive spine surgery, your surgeon will make small incisions near the affected area of your spine. Specialized instruments and an endoscope (a tiny camera) are used to access the spine without disturbing surrounding muscles and tissues. 

Depending on your condition, your surgeon may remove a herniated disc, stabilize the spine, or address other spinal issues. After the procedure, the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue, and bandages are applied.

What to Do After Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery

After your minimally invasive spine surgery, following your surgeon’s postoperative care instructions is crucial for a successful recovery. You may experience some discomfort or mild pain, which can usually be managed with prescribed medications. It’s important to:

  • Rest and recover: Allow your body time to heal by getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities.
  • Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns.
  • Physical therapy: Your surgeon may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen your back and improve mobility.
  • Monitor for complications: Watch for signs of infection or other complications, such as increased pain or changes in sensation, and contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
  • Gradual return to activities: Gradually resume normal activities as advised by your surgeon to avoid overexertion.

Schedule Your Consult Today

If you’re experiencing spinal pain and believe minimally invasive spine surgery may be the solution, our experienced team at Coastal Orthopedics is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your options and take the first step toward relief.