These days, computer-assisted technology combined with highly advanced and specialized tools has made minimally invasive surgery a viable and attractive option for patients. The technique promises less risks, smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and quicker recovery.
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is prescribed for treatment of neck and back pain caused due to a number of spine related conditions. The procedure makes use of highly advanced technology and innovative techniques for effective treatment.
The following spinal conditions are treated by MISS:
The major goal of a minimally invasive spine surgery is to reduce damage done to soft tissues. Additionally, it is less risky and less invasive as compared to the traditional open spine surgery.
The minimally invasive spinal surgery fulfils the following major goals:
1. Stabilization
In some cases, a mobile segment becomes the primary source of pain. Patient may also experience abnormal movement resulting in pain. A stabilizing surgery is recommended for this condition. This is precisely a fusion technique usually conducted with the use of medical grade instrumentation.
2. Decompression
The process takes pressure off or decompresses spinal cord or nerve roots. This relieves pinched nerves and pain experienced by patient.
The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery can be categorised into 3 main types:
1. Mini-open Surgery
This is quite similar to an open procedure. However, this produces only fewer risks as compared to the open one. For instance, less amount of blood is lost during a mini open surgery. The risk of infection is also reduced due to the smaller size of incision. Technical advances in the field of visualization have helped mini-open procedures highly practical, effective and safer.
2. Tubular
The surgery involves use of a tubular retractor. It works as a tunnel that passes through back muscles in order to give surgeons easier access to spine. This type of surgery is also referred to as a "muscle-splitting" surgical approach. This surgery produces fewer chances of muscle damage and less amount of blood loss as compared to an open spine surgery.
3. Endoscopic
This minimally invasive spine surgery makes use of endoscope, a tiny video camera. It is smaller than a dime in size. It is passed through a tiny (less than 2 cm) surgical incisions to access your spine. Also referred to as a "keyhole surgery" due to the ability of endoscopic guides providing a keyhole internal view of patient's body on screens inside the operating room, this is an effective option for treating spinal conditions.
Surgery needs to be a last resort for treating back pain and other spinal conditions. It is considered and recommended only once the patient has already tried all kinds of non-surgical treatments including bed rest, pain medications, and physical therapy for at least 6 to 12 months. In case, these treatment options do not work, the doctors may want to consider a minimally invasive spine surgery. This depends on the type of condition and severity level the patient suffers from.
