Are you looking for a spine surgery option that involves minimal invasion? Minimally invasive spine surgery provides an alternative to traditional open spine procedures. They are geared towards reducing trauma to the surrounding tissue, muscle, and nerves while allowing surgeons to address your problem area accurately.
This can often lead to faster recovery times and less post-operative scarring than older, more invasive techniques – but which type of minimally-invasive procedure is right for you? Let’s explore the minimally invasive spine surgery options to decide which suits your needs best.
Laminectomy
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part of the vertebrae or bone in your spine. This surgery is typically performed to treat nerve compression caused by conditions such as:
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated disks
- Spondylolisthesis
A portion of the bony arch called the lamina is removed during this procedure. After the removal, pressure on the nerves may be relieved, and range-of-motion restored.
When considering whether you are a good candidate for a laminectomy, you should consider how severe your symptoms and condition are. If conservative treatments haven’t successfully alleviated pain and other symptoms associated with your condition, then it might be appropriate to discuss having a laminectomy.
A laminectomy aims to remove the portion of bone causing nerve compression and relieve any pressure on the affected nerves. It may also release space for spinal fusion, which helps the spine heal. A laminectomy can usually be done in an outpatient setting, meaning you will not have to stay overnight in a hospital after your procedure.
Discectomy
Minimally invasive discectomy is a back surgery used to treat herniated discs. It is minimally invasive, meaning that surgeons use specialized instruments to cut through only small parts of the disc instead of creating large incisions and working with more muscle tissue. This procedure reduces the time it takes for recovery and minimizes the risks associated with traditional open-back surgery.
Once the damaged disc is removed, a graft may be placed inside the space left behind to help support and stabilize the spine. The surgeon typically uses bone harvested from elsewhere in your body or artificial materials like titanium or plastic. After any necessary repairs are complete, stitches are used to close up the incisions.
Foraminotomy
Foraminotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove bulging discs or bone spurs from the spinal canal. During a foraminotomy, an incision is made in the back to access the spine and remove material pressing on nerves. This surgery aims to relieve nerve pressure, reduce pain, and improve neurological functioning.
Spinal fusion
Minimally invasive spinal fusion is a technique to treat conditions like degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and spinal stenosis without opening surgery. This procedure uses small incisions to access the spine and insert rods or other stabilizing devices. It is sometimes used with instrumentation such as screws, plates, and cages to ensure spine stability following the procedure.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery is an important option for people with back pain. It can relieve symptoms and improve functioning without the more extensive recovery time and risks associated with traditional spine surgery. The decision to proceed with any procedure must be made after consultation with the appropriate physician and thorough research of the options.
Dr. Christopher Michael of Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery is a highly experienced and respected practitioner who provides advanced minimally invasive spine surgical services, enabling his patients to experience better health outcomes closest to their desires. Schedule a consultation with him today!
