Minimally invasive surgery refers to a method of procedure that uses small incisions to access a specific part of the body, rather than large, open surgery incisions. This can lead to many benefits for the procedure and the post-op recovery.
Benefits of minimally invasive surgery
Minimally invasive spinal surgery has many benefits including:
Less tissue, organ and muscle trauma
Less scarring
Shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery time
Reduced blood loss
Less pain during recovery
How is it different than open surgery?
Of course, minimally invasive surgery uses a small incision to be more precise. However, there are multiple differences to the approach. Usually, you will undergo more diagnostic imaging in order for the surgeon to know exactly where to complete the surgery. In open surgery, the larger incision allows for slightly more flexibility, but requires different tools like the type of retractor.
For further questions about the differences between minimally invasive spinal surgery and open spinal surgery, consult the doctors at Spine and Scoliosis Specialists.
Procedures That Can Be Treated Using Minimally Invasive Surgery
Many conditions can be treated with minimally invasive surgery, consult Dr. Cohen and Dr. Torrealba if your condition is listed below:
- Herniated Disc
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Scoliosis
Go here for a more details of spine conditions
Main Goals of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Decompression: This is used to take pressure off (to decompress) your spinal cord or nerve roots. That pressure can cause pinched nerves and pain. The goal of this procedure is to relieve the pressure and reduce your pain.
Stabilization: Sometimes a mobile segment can be the source of pain or abnormal movement can cause pain. When this happens, a stabilizing surgery may be needed. This is typically a fusion, often done with instrumentation.
While it may seem like minimally invasive surgery is a better option, it is not always appropriate for each case. If you have questions about any spinal conditions we treat, minimally invasive surgery treatment, or if your condition would require minimally invasive surgery contact the Spine and Scoliosis Specialists at (336)-333-6306