Advances in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in the Last Decade
The spine is often overlooked because many think it’s resilient and won’t get damaged easily. However, the spine is quite fragile and susceptible to injury. It’s the leading cause of disability worldwide. According to studies, 250,000 to 500,000 people suffer from a spinal cord injury (SCI) every year.
Even though most of these result from preventable accidents, you must do your part to protect it. People with SCI are two to five times more likely to die prematurely than people without it. That’s why taking care of your spine and keeping it healthy is essential.
If you have problems with your spine, you must get it checked by a spine surgeon to know the best course of action. Most of the time, minimally invasive spine surgeries are required to fix the issue. Fortunately, advancements in minimally invasive spine surgeries have become substantial in the last decade. Learn more here.
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)?
Minimally invasive spine surgery, or MISS, is a type of surgery that uses small incisions and minimal disruption to the surrounding tissue. Its goal is to reduce the risk of complications and improve the patient’s recovery time. It stabilizes the vertebral bones and spinal joints and relieves pressure on the spinal nerves. These are often a result of spinal instability, bone spurs, herniated discs, scoliosis, or spinal tumors.
Benefits of a MISS
- Smaller incisions lead to less blood loss and scarring
- Reduced risk of infection
- Reduced risk of nerve damage
- Quicker recovery time
- Less pain and discomfort
- Eliminating reliance on pain medications
- Better cosmetic results
Different Types of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeries
As aforementioned, many advances in MISS in the last decade are used today. Here are some of its common types:
- Lumbar Spinal Fusion: Minimizes cutting and limits disruption of the body’s tissues. The procedure can be performed with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), transforaminal interbody lumbar fusion (TLIF), or lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF).
- Lumbar Laminectomy: This procedure involves the removal of a portion of the lamina to relieve compression of the spinal nerve roots.
- Discectomy: Using specialized tools, the surgeon will gently remove the piece of disc material that compresses the nerve. Its goal is to relieve pain from a herniated disc.
- Internal Fixation on Thoracic & Lumbar Fractures: This procedure is performed to repair bone fractures. During this procedure, the surgeon uses screws to hold the fractured bone in place while it heals.
- Cervical Arthroplasty: Insertion of an artificial disc to replace a herniated disc in the neck
These less invasive spine operations may be just what you need to address your increasing spinal issue. As a result, it will assist you in scheduling a visit with a physician to determine your best alternative.
Opting for the best & safest MISS at GNS Surgery Center
Minimally invasive spinal surgeries are methods used to fix any spinal problems you may have without exposing you to general anesthesia. At the same time, it provides a quicker healing process, so it’s an option that spine surgeons offer to their patients.
If you believe you have spine problems, make sure to contact one of our physicians to know the best MISS for you. It’s a life-changing treatment that can improve the quality of your life.
