Common Questions About Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Got questions about minimally invasive spine surgery and need answers? Spine doctors generally prefer that patients recover through conservative or nonsurgical treatment methods. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible. If your doctor has told you that you might need spine surgery, you should become fully informed about the procedure before moving forward with it. Depending on your unique circumstances, you may be a good candidate for minimally invasive surgery.

How Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Different From Conventional Surgery?

Traditionally, spine surgery is done using one very long incision, followed by cutting the muscles to access the surgical site. As the name implies, minimally invasive spine surgery involves making a series of much smaller incisions and gently separating the muscles, rather than cutting them. Although conventional surgery is still needed in some cases, minimally invasive techniques are generally preferred because do not inflict as much trauma on the patient. This can lead to many benefits, including reduced pain and bleeding, and a shorter hospital stay, and overall recovery.

Which Spine Problems Are Treatable With Minimally Invasive Surgery?

Many spinal conditions are treatable using these techniques, including surgeries like laminectomies and laminotomies to relieve the symptoms of spinal stenosis, sciatica, and herniated discs. Using minimally invasive techniques, surgeons can perform spinal fusions, microdiscectomies, and vertebroplasties.

How Long Is the Hospital Stay?

The hospital stay and overall recovery time are usually shortened for minimally invasive surgery patients compared to patients who undergo conventional surgery. However, every patient is a little different. Most may expect to return home within two to three days, although the hospitalization may be extended if complications develop.

Will I Still Need Physical Therapy?

Minimally invasive techniques do not cancel out the need for physical rehabilitation after surgery. It’s important to carefully follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, including making appointments with a physical therapist.

The Spine Institute of Nevada is a leading provider of minimally invasive surgery in Las Vegas. If you’re a good candidate for spinal surgery, we’ll discuss everything you need to know during your consultation. You can set up an appointment today by calling 702-239-3787.