Minimally invasive back surgery is a procedure performed through tiny incisions. It offers many benefits, including less pain and a shorter recovery. Conditions treated by this type of surgery include herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and other conditions that affect the spine.

If you are experiencing back pain, you may be a candidate for minimally invasive back surgery. A consultation with a spine specialist can help determine if this surgery is right for you.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive back surgery?

Minimally invasive back surgery offers several benefits, including:

Less pain
Shorter hospital stays
Reduced risk of infection
Reduced blood loss
Faster recovery time
Reduced scarring

What are the different types of minimally invasive back surgery procedures?

Some of the most common minimally invasive back surgical procedures include:

Laminectomy

A laminectomy is a type of decompression surgery performed to treat spinal stenosis. This condition occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae become narrow, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

A laminectomy removes a small section of bone (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves performed through a small incision in the back.

Discectomy

A discectomy is a decompression surgery performed to treat a herniated disc. This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae become damaged and rupture, which can pressure the spinal cord and nerves.

A discectomy removes the damaged disc to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The surgeon will make a small incision in the back to perform this procedure.

Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion is a surgery that treats conditions causing the vertebrae to move out of place, such as spondylolisthesis. This painful condition can place pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

Spinal fusion surgery involves using hardware (rods, screws, and plates) to fuse two or more vertebrae through an incision in the back.

Artificial disc replacement

Artificial disc replacement is a type of surgery used to treat degenerative disc disease. This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae begin to break down, resulting in pain.

Artificial disc replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial disc performed through an incision in the front of the neck or back.

If you are suffering from back pain, talk to your doctor to see if minimally invasive back surgery is right for you.

Are you a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery is not appropriate for every patient. Your surgeon will consider several factors when deciding whether or not this type of surgery is right for you, including: