5 Must-Know Facts about Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Advances in medical technology in recent years have led to more efficient treatments of back and neck conditions. The minimally invasive surgical technique employed by spine surgeons in Plano entails less damage to muscles around the spine as it typically involves making smaller incisions. This usually results in less post-surgical pain, and a faster recovery. The first step into determining what treatment options are best is for patients to get their facts about spine surgery straight, by researching and consulting a spine surgeon in Plano. In this blog, we look at five vital facts about minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) for the benefit of those who are exploring treatments options for spine problems, or about to undergo spine surgery. Take a look.

1. Multiple Advantages Over Open Surgery

There are a number of advantages of MISS over the traditional open surgery. Smaller incisions associated with MISS typically mean faster recovery and short hospital stay. In most cases, minimally invasive spine surgery can be performed in an outpatient setting, which means patients can go home the same day or next day after surgery. Patients typically experience a lower rate of perioperative complications, less postoperative pain, less tissue damage, and reduced blood loss with a minimally invasive surgery. There are also less chances of infection, and the surgery usually results in less scarring then open surgery.

2. Sometimes It is the Best Option

Consulting minimally invasive spine surgeons to discuss minimally invasive spine surgery options when spinal pain remains persistent after non-surgical or conservative approaches is an important step in your path to finding the best treatment options for you. Minimally invasive spine surgery was developed to help accomplish the same objectives as open surgeon but with less damage to the surrounding tissue. Not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery, however, it’s important to find out if your condition can be treated with a minimally invasive surgical technique.

3. Faster Recovery & Greater Cost Savings

Minimally invasive spinal procedures typically offer a more speedy recovery time and a quicker return to work as compared to open surgery. Due to the smaller incisions, patients recover faster from their surgical wound, and can resume normal daily activities quicker than patients who undergo traditional spinal surgery. Since minimally invasive spine surgery requires a shorter hospital stay it also typically offers a great cost savings.

4. Use of Advanced Technology

There are multiple procedures that utilize minimally invasive surgical techniques. One such technique is the use of a tubular retractor. The use this technology, a small incision is made and the tubular retractor is inserted down to the spinal column. This technique offers direct visualization of the operative field and minimizes trauma to soft tissue. Surgeons treat several pathologies of the spine such as herniated discs, synovial cysts, and lumbar stenosis using this technique. Flexibility and ease of use make using a tubular retractor particularly useful in spinal decompression.

5. MISS Treats Numerous Spine Conditions

With fewer risks involved than in open spine surgery, orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons in the U.S. use minimally invasive spine surgery to treat numerous spine conditions. They include, but are not limited to, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal fractures, scoliosis, spinal tumors, and spinal infections. Discuss with your doctor if minimally invasive surgery is an option for you, and make sure they explain the procedure in detail before proceeding.

The Takeaway

Spine surgeons generally recommend spine surgery if neck or back problems don’t get any better with other treatment options. In such cases, surgery is the last resort to help correct the problem. If you think you’re a candidate for spine surgery, ask your physician whether MISS is the right choice for you. If you’re looking for a neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon in Plano, Texas, get in touch with a leading physician referral center in the city. They will tie you up with a reputable spine surgeon near you.