Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Understanding 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. 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 trauma related to exposure.
The specifics of the procedure vary based on the targeted area of the spine. Surgeons employing minimally invasive techniques typically make smaller incisions compared to standard open procedures. They use a small camera attached to an endoscope, a slender tube, to visualize the operative area. It’s important to note that minimally invasive surgery is selected only when it can achieve similar or improved outcomes compared to open surgery.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Beyond smaller scars, potential benefits of minimally invasive spine surgery encompass:
- Reduced pain and less disturbance to 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
When is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Utilized?
When conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy fall short in providing sufficient relief, surgery might be recommended by your surgeon. 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 surgery isn’t universal. Your surgeon will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment pathway for your specific situation. The adept surgeons at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center possess a wealth of experience in diagnosing and treating spinal disorders and diseases. They are skilled in the latest, safest techniques to alleviate pain and enhance your return to an active lifestyle.
Anticipating the Process
Before surgery, your surgeon will detail the procedure, necessary preparations, and post-operative expectations. 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.
Contact Us For An Appointment
The care team at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center can help you decide on the treatment that's best for you. They specialize in minimally invasive surgery and are experienced in diagnosing and treating disorders and diseases, using the newest techniques for relieving pain and returning you to an active lifestyle. To make an appointment at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center call 919-784-7550.
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