Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

When people hear anyone mention an upcoming back surgery, they most often hear reactions such as – “Oh goodness, that sounds serious.” “How long will it take to recover?” “Is it worth the risk?” Most people associate back surgery with hours of surgery, long scars, and a difficult recovery.

Any type of back surgery is considered a major surgical procedure. The number of nerves alone that surround the spine is mind-boggling, and taking a knife to the spinal area is a very complicated matter. Fortunately, minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) is an option for many patients.  MIS has been around since the 1980s, but it has seen many advances in the last 25 years. Due to these advances in skilled physicians specializing in back pain and spine care have been able to treat patients with an array of spinal disorders.

These physicians are highly trained surgeons and interventional spine doctors who use laser and endoscopic techniques to help patients get relief from chronic back and neck pain. These procedures can be completed through a very small incision that helps reduce post-operative recovery time compared to traditional surgical techniques that require a large, open incision.

Most minimally invasive laser and endoscopic spine surgeries are offered as outpatient procedures although some procedures will require a short hospital stay. Because of the minimally invasive techniques, the recovery time for their patients’ back surgeries is significantly reduced.

Recovery is enhanced through a variety of physical therapies and the patient may be provided a brace to improve comfort for the first few days or weeks following the procedure.  However, since minimally invasive spine surgery preserves more muscle function, extended use of a back brace is usually not necessary.

Posted on behalf of Armin Oskouei

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