Minimally invasive spinal surgery is an option for those who wish to avoid traditional open surgery methods. After the patient has been fully prepped, anesthesia is given, and the procedure begins using a light source to illuminate the area. Next, the surgeon will use a long needle inserted through a small incision on the back of your neck or buttocks and threaded through your spine to remove any stenosis or compression. The technique's unique approach allows patients both increased mobility and less risk of complications compared to open surgical methods, which often cause permanent nerve damage and deformity in the spine.

• What is minimally invasive spine surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery is a relatively new and growing field in the medical profession, with proven benefits for the patient. While traditional spinal surgeries often require long periods in the hospital and possible fusion of vertebrae, minimally invasive techniques have allowed surgical procedures to be performed through small incisions. Many surgeons use only a single epidural needle to sedate the patient and perform all functions. As a result, the surgeries typically take shorter lengths of time without compromising the quality or effectiveness of results.

• How does minimally invasive surgery work?

An incision is made to expose the stenosis--this can be caused on the upper torso or buttocks. From there, the surgeon places a needle into the area to remove any impeding fluid or bone. The incision is closed with sutures, and the patient is allowed to rest for 10-12 hours before being released from the hospital.

There are plenty of fascinating Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery. Minimally invasive spinal surgery can be performed on all vertebral levels and through numerous other parts of the body, such as vertebral disc and lumbar herniation. The technique is even utilized on injuries that have caused paralysis in others due to shock or severe pain.

• How do I prepare for spine surgery?

Before the procedure, a determination must be made by people on whether or not other methods will be needed. Before the surgery, patients typically have blood tests performed to determine kidney, liver, and heart function levels. Medications are then given to help reduce muscle pain and swelling during the procedure.

The patient will also have an EKG (electrocardiogram), and an MRI ordered, which may reveal pre-existing conditions such as coronary artery disease. In addition to these tests, patients are advised to find a support system before surgery to keep their spirits up while away from home.

• What happens during minimally invasive spine surgery?

As with any surgery, the patient will be fully anesthetized and prepared for the surgery beforehand. The surgeon will then make an incision in the back or buttocks area, depending on which site will give them access to the desired vertebrae.

Minimally invasive spine surgery does not require a large incision, so this should be easy for the surgeon to accomplish. Once in place, they will use live x-ray imaging and fiber optics to see the procedure better as it takes place.

• How do you recover from this surgery?

If all goes well during the procedure, patients can expect a quicker recovery than traditional spine surgeries. The doctor will recommend that the patient take it easy for several days following the surgery and rest for thirty minutes every three hours for a few days. Patients are typically free to go home ten hours after the procedure and return to work within 2-3 weeks.

After this bed rest, they can add exercise to rehabilitation and recovery. The patient should move forward with physical therapy and manual manipulation to lessen any pain or stiffness they may feel.    

Conclusion:

Minimally invasive spine surgery has proven to be an effective treatment option for many spine-related conditions. With short recovery periods and decreased levels of pain and scarring, minimally invasive surgery is a preferred choice for many patients.