Back pain affects up to 80% of adults in the U.S. at some point in their lives, and it remains one of the leading causes of disability.1 As we enter 2025, it’s the perfect time to consider making your back health a priority. If you’ve been struggling with persistent spine issues, minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) may offer a solution that can help you regain mobility, alleviate pain, and return to a more active lifestyle.
Understanding Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery is a technique that involves making small incisions—usually only 2 to 5 inches long—to treat conditions affecting the spine. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires larger incisions and can cause significant muscle and tissue damage, MISS uses advanced technology to minimize disruption, leading to less pain, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery.
Dr. Moazzaz utilizes the Mazor X robotic system in his practice to assist in these surgeries. This robotic technology enhances precision, allowing for more accurate procedures. By integrating real-time imaging, Dr. Moazzaz can perform complex spinal surgeries with great accuracy, ensuring optimal outcomes and minimizing recovery times for patients.
How the Procedure Works
In minimally invasive spine surgery, small incisions provide access to the spine, where specialized instruments are used to retract tissue and expose the area requiring treatment. In some cases, Dr. Moazzaz uses robotic guidance with the Mazor X system to assist in navigating the surgery with precision, especially when dealing with complicated spinal issues. The use of fluoroscopy (X-ray) allows him to monitor the surgery in real time, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.
This approach is ideal for treating conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease, among others, with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Faster Recovery: With less tissue disruption, patients typically experience less pain and can return to their daily activities more quickly than with traditional surgery.
- Less Postoperative Pain: Compared to conventional surgery, MISS often results in reduced postoperative discomfort, helping patients manage pain with fewer medications.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Robotic-assisted surgery, such as the Mazor X, has been shown to reduce the likelihood of complications like infection or blood loss.
- Improved Precision: Robotics provide enhanced accuracy in the placement of surgical instruments, improving the overall effectiveness of the procedure.
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for You?
If you’ve been dealing with chronic back pain and conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication haven’t provided relief, minimally invasive spine surgery may be a viable option for you. This approach combines cutting-edge technology with a personalized care plan to help you recover faster and with less pain.
Dr. Moazzaz is dedicated to helping patients improve their spine health using the most advanced techniques available. Consider scheduling a consultation to discuss whether minimally invasive spine surgery could be the right choice for you.
AUTHOR: Dr. Payam Moazzaz is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in California specializing in robotic-assisted minimally invasive spine surgery.
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