Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgeries: Indications & More

Minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS) is a surgical technique that uses small incisions and specialized instruments to access the spine for any repair. MISS is typically used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. The goal of MISS is to minimize damage to surrounding tissue and muscle, reduce recovery time and pain, and improve outcomes for patients. Some examples of minimally invasive spine surgeries include microdiscectomy, laminotomy, and spinal fusion.

Minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS) is typically indicated for patients who have a specific spinal condition that is causing pain, weakness, numbness, or other symptoms that are not responding to conservative treatment options such as physical therapy, medication, and nerve blocks. Some common indications for MISS include:

• Herniated discs: A herniated disc occurs when the inner material of a spinal disc bulges out and presses on a nerve. MISS can be used to remove the herniated portion of the disc and relieve pressure on the nerve.
• Spinal stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. MISS can be used to remove bone or tissue to widen the spinal canal.
• Degenerative disc disease: This is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae begin to wear down and cause pain. MISS can be used to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
• Spondylolisthesis: A condition in which one vertebra slips over another, MISS can be used to reduce the slippage and fuse the vertebrae together to prevent further slippage.
• Scoliosis: a condition where the spine is curved, MISS can be used to correct the curve and prevent the condition's progression.

You should consult with a spine specialist who can evaluate the specific condition and recommend the best course of treatment.

Preparing for minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) typically involves a few steps to ensure that you are in the best possible condition for the procedure and to minimize the risk of complications. Here are some things you can do to prepare for MISS:

• Meet with your surgeon: Before the surgery, you will need to meet with your surgeon to discuss the details of the procedure, including the risks and benefits, and to ask any questions you may have.
• Get medical clearance: Your surgeon may ask you to undergo certain tests, such as blood tests, an EKG, or a chest X-Ray, to ensure that you are in good health and to identify any potential risks.
• Stop certain medications: If you are taking any blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin, your surgeon may ask you to stop taking them before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Stop smoking: If you smoke, your surgeon may ask you to stop smoking several weeks before the surgery to improve your chances of a successful outcome.
• Arrange for transportation and assistance: You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery and to help you out for a few days or weeks while you recover.
• Follow pre-operative instructions: Your surgeon may give you specific instructions to follow before the surgery, such as not eating or drinking anything after a certain time the night before.
• Prepare for post-operative recovery: You should make arrangements for any needs you might have after the surgery like having someone take care of you for a few days, help with medications and dressing, etc.

It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions and to let them know if you have any concerns or questions. 

Minimally invasive spinal surgeries make use of smaller incisions and specialized instruments to gain access to the spine. The technique employed might differ according to the condition that is being treated. Here, let's take a detailed look at the types of procedures available:

• Microdiscectomy: Herniated discs are treated with this technique. A small incision is made in the lower back and the surgeon removes the portion of the herniated disc that is impinging the spinal nerves. This relieves pressure on the nerve and improves the symptoms.
• Laminotomy: To enlarge the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, a tiny incision is made in the lower back, and a specialized tool is used to remove a part of the lamina (the bone roof of the spinal canal). This helps to create more space in the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
• Spinal Fusion: Here two or more vertebrae or individual bones of the spine are fused together to stabilize the spine and relieve symptoms. Here, an incision is made in the patient’s back and the portion of the disc or bone spurs compressing the nerves is removed. 
• Scoliosis correction: This surgery is done to correct the abnormal curvature of the spine. To straighten the curve and stabilize the spine, small incisions are made in the back and specialized equipment is used.

The patient will normally be under general anesthesia during the procedure, and the surgeon will guide the tools and assure accuracy by using imaging equipment, such as an X-ray or fluoroscopy. Usually, the operation lasts between 1 to 3 hours.

Recovery after minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) varies depending on the type of procedure, the patient's overall health, and the specific condition being treated. However, in general, recovery tends to be quicker and less painful than with traditional open surgery. Here are some things you can expect during the recovery period:

• Hospital stay: You will typically be hospitalized for a few days after the surgery, during which time you will be closely monitored for any complications.
• Pain management: You will be given pain medication to manage any discomfort you may have during the recovery period.
• Physical therapy: You will likely start physical therapy soon after the surgery to help you regain strength and mobility.
• Activity restrictions: Your surgeon may place restrictions on your activities during the recovery period, such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.

Return to normal activities: The length of time it takes to return to normal activities will vary depending on the type of surgery and your individual recovery. Some patients are able to return to work and normal activities within a few weeks, while others may take several months.

The patient's age, general health, and the particular spinal problem being treated are all important considerations for determining the prognosis for MISS. Studies have generally demonstrated that patients who receive MISS for ailments such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease have positive results with a lower chance of complications.

It's crucial to remember that not all spinal problems lend themselves to MISS, and not every patient qualifies for a minimally invasive surgery. In addition, the surgeon's expertise and experience also have a role in the procedure's outcome.

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is absolutely normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital, the finest doctor, and the latest procedure at the lowest cost. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery. Think surgery! Think Medfin!