Spine surgery was traditionally performed as an open procedure, which is considered to be a more invasive form of surgery. This is not only because of its large incision but also because of the disruption it causes to the surrounding soft tissue. However, spine surgery has evolved and advanced throughout the years as technology and surgical techniques have changed.
Today, more and more spine conditions and injuries, such as herniated discs and lumbar spinal stenosis, are being surgically treated with minimally invasive surgery, or MIS surgery. This less invasive form of surgery utilizes advanced minimally invasive techniques, and unlike traditional open surgery, it uses smaller incisions and focuses on working around the surrounding soft tissue.
Because minimally invasive spine surgery uses smaller incisions, it must be performed with specialized instruments and tools. One of these tools is called a tubular retractor and is used to create a small tunnel for other instruments to fit through. Another is called a microscope and provides the surgeon with visibility during surgery.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
When spine surgery is performed using minimally invasive techniques, it provides patients with the following benefits:
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Faster recovery
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Less postoperative pain
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Less scarring due to the smaller incisions
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Lower chance of developing an infection
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Reduced hospital stay
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Reduced risk of muscle damage
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for You?
Minimally invasive spine surgery should only be considered after all applicable nonsurgical treatment options have been tried. If conservative treatments have proven to be ineffective for you and you are suffering from one of the following, you may be a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery:
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Compressed or irritated spinal nerves
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Degenerative disc disease
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Herniated disc
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Lumbar or cervical spine pain
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Nerve root pain
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Spinal cord compression
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Spinal deformity
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Spinal stenosis
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Spondylolisthesis
To determine if minimally invasive spine surgery is right for you, request a consultation with our expert spine surgeon by requesting an appointment online or calling (321) 972-2932.
Our spine surgeon is also a member of the most experienced spine team in the region and has undergone extensive training to offer the specialized spine care you need to get back to a life renewed.
Dedicated to using the latest evidence-based and most advanced surgical techniques, our spine surgeon is highly skilled at performing surgical procedures for the spine, including:
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Computer navigation minimally invasive spine procedures
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Kyphoplasty
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Microdiscectomy
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Minimally invasive lumbar decompression
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Minimally invasive surgery for the lumbar and cervical spine
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Spinal fusion
To consult with our spine surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive spine procedures, please click the link below: