Are You an Ideal Candidate for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeries?
A minimally invasive method is not appropriate for everyone. There are certain indications for minimally invasive Roswell spine surgery, such as when it works well and when you should avoid it for safety reasons. Each operation must be tailored to you as well as the technique. However, before surgery is considered, here are some non-invasive treatment options your spine care team may first explore.
Various types of minimally invasive spine surgeries (MISS)
1. Discectomy: Spinal discs are the soft tissue that sits between the vertebrae. They provide movement cushioning for the spine. Occasionally, the discs will grow and push out. This is known as a hernia. Hernias can produce discomfort by pressing adjacent nerves. A discectomy allows a surgeon to remove or trim the herniated disc.
2. Screws and rods: This form of MISS employs X-ray imaging and guide wires to assist the surgeon in placing screws and rods in the spin. These aid in the stabilization of certain parts of the spine. The surgeon will remove the guidance wires and seal the incisions after the screws or rods are in place.
3. TLIF (transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion): Connecting portions of the spine can improve stability and strength. Several screws will be inserted into the vertebrae during TLIF. The injured disc and bone will be removed. Afterward, the surgeon will connect bone material to the existing bone. This results in the formation of a new, stronger spine portion.
4. Spine decompression: Pain, numbness, and tingling are frequent symptoms of spinal stenosis. It occurs when the space inside and around the spine becomes too small. Decompression surgery can remove bone or soft tissue to provide space and relieve discomfort.
What to anticipate during your recovery from a minimally invasive spine surgery
Compared to open operation, minimally invasive spine surgery causes less pain, less muscle damage, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery and return to work or everyday activities. Patients who have undergone minimally invasive spine surgery often stay in the hospital for 3-5 days. The overall time to fully recover varies from patient to patient and is determined by your spinal condition, the severity of the treatment, the experience of your surgical team, your age, general health, and other considerations. It might take months for you to heal fully. You are recommended to inquire with your surgeon about the estimated recovery time for your operation.
Moreover, physical therapy may be recommended by your doctor to help you restore strength and heal faster. Maintain all follow-up visits with your spine center team. They will monitor your progress and address any issues or queries you may have.
Research and choose a spine treatment clinic that uses a team approach to get the best results for your spine or back pain condition. Surgeons must be extremely informed, talented, and have extensive expertise with minimally invasive methods. However, surgeons aren’t the only team members. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, interventionalists (who address both the emotional and physical components of your spinal condition), general neurologists, pain psychologists, and a diversified surgical team are all part of a competent spine health team. Call Apex Spine and Neurosurgery to schedule your meeting today to determine if minimally invasive spine surgeries suit you.