Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
If treatment for a neurological condition requires physical access to the spine, minimally invasive spine surgery at North Carolina Neurosciences & Spine Center might be the best option. Our board-certified neurosurgeons utilize this specialized technique to minimize the need for more invasive treatments and facilitate a quicker, more comfortable recovery.
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery refers to the same surgical procedures that can be performed using traditional open techniques, but with a smaller incision. Therefore, this approach is often referred to as “minimal access surgery,” rather than “minimal surgery.” Specially-designed instruments are utilized in minimally invasive spine surgery, allowing access to the spine through small incisions. This results in reduced muscle dissection, decreased morbidity, and less exposure-related trauma.
Who is a Good Candidate for Minimally Invasive Back Surgery?
A spectrum of conditions can be addressed using minimally invasive spine surgery, including:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated disc
- Spinal deformities like scoliosis
- Spinal infections
- Spinal instability
- Spinal stenosis
- Vertebral compression fractures
However, candidacy for minimally invasive spine surgery isn’t universal. Accurate diagnosis of these conditions typically requires advanced imaging studies, such as MRI scans to visualize soft tissue structures and CT scans to examine bone detail. These diagnostic tools help your neurosurgeon determine the exact location and severity of your spinal condition, ensuring that minimally invasive techniques are appropriate in your specific case.
He or she will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment pathway for your specific situation. It’s important to note that minimally invasive surgery is selected only when it can achieve similar or improved outcomes compared to open surgery.
The Procedure
Although each patient’s circumstances vary, many minimally invasive procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. If a hospital stay is warranted, it generally spans fewer than three days.
The specifics of the procedure vary based on the targeted area of the spine. Neurosurgeons who employ minimally invasive techniques typically make smaller incisions compared to those used in standard open procedures. They use a small camera attached to an endoscope (a slender tube) to visualize the operative area.
Recovery After Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Recovery for this type of procedure is usually faster and more comfortable than from traditional open procedures. Most patients experience reduced post-operative pain and can often begin light activities within a few days. Physical therapy often begins earlier in the recovery process, enabling patients to regain strength and mobility more quickly.
Why Choose North Carolina Neurosciences & Spine Center
At North Carolina Neurosciences & Spine Center, we leverage advanced technologies to maximize treatment outcomes and rely on an expert team to ensure the highest quality of care. Our highly skilled neurosurgeons collaborate with neurohospitalists, neurologists, and rehabilitation medicine professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Additionally, we utilize cutting-edge digital imaging technologies, including CT, MRI, and X-ray, to increase precision and accuracy in diagnoses and treatment options, while ensuring safe, efficient, and effective care for all our patients.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Smaller scars
- Reduced pain and less disturbance to the surrounding spinal muscles
- Shorter hospital stay
- Accelerated recovery and quicker return to normal activities
- Lower infection rates
- Diminished blood loss
- Reduced need for narcotics
- Lower costs, often stemming from outpatient procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive myself home after a minimally invasive spine procedure?
No, you should not drive immediately after any spine surgery due to the effects of anesthesia and any pain medication. You'll need to arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours following your procedure.
How soon after surgery will I know if it was successful?
While some patients experience immediate relief from certain symptoms, such as leg pain, full results may take several weeks or months to become apparent. Bone healing and tissue recovery continue for months after surgery, so your surgeon will monitor your progress through follow-up appointments and imaging studies.
Will I have any lifting restrictions after minimally invasive spine surgery?
Yes, most patients will have temporary lifting restrictions, typically avoiding anything over 10-15 pounds for the first few weeks. Your neurosurgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your procedure, and restrictions will gradually be lifted as your spine heals and strengthens.
Schedule Your First Appointment
If you or your primary care physician believes you have a condition that would be best treated with minimally invasive spine surgery, contact North Carolina Neurosciences & Spine Center today to set up an appointment. Our highly experienced neurosurgeons would be delighted to meet with you in West Raleigh, Clayton, Pineville, Holly Springs, or Cary.
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