Making informed choices about spine surgery is paramount for individuals dealing with spinal issues. The decision to have spine surgery is serious, but never before has the risk been this low. The advancements in medical technology have made spinal surgeries safer and less invasive.
There are advantages to minimally invasive surgery (MISS) over traditional open surgery. Minimally invasive techniques provide better results than more invasive treatments for almost 90% of back and neck injuries.1 You may need minimally invasive spinal surgery if you have been experiencing back pain for over 3 to 6 months, with no relief from medication, physical therapy, or spinal injections.
Compared to traditional spine surgery, minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions that do not affect nearby bones, muscles, or tissues—making recovery faster. There is a significantly lower risk of adverse reactions in MISS surgeries, since they happen under local anesthesia as outpatient procedures. Patients can enjoy returning home on the same day as their procedure to recover.
Noteworthy advantages of (MISS) minimally invasive spine surgery:
- Quick recovery times
- Smaller incisions yield greater cosmetic results
- Outpatient procedure
- Less blood loss
- Less need for pain medication post-surgery
- Reduced muscle and tissue damage
- A decreased infection risk
Important considerations:
Patient Eligibility: MISS is not suitable for all spine conditions or patients. Patients' overall health, the complexity of the spine issue, and the surgeon's experience all affect the choice between open and minimally invasive surgery.
Surgeon Experience: Choosing a highly experienced surgeon specializing in MISS is crucial. The surgeon's expertise directly impacts patient outcomes.
Surgical Expectations: Patients must have realistic expectations about their postoperative experience, even though MISS can help them recover faster and with less pain. A complete recovery may still take a while. Like any surgery, rehabilitation is an important aspect.
Dr. Payam Moazzaz, a seasoned expert in spinal care, understands the importance of well-informed decisions when it comes to spine surgery. Deciding on spine surgery is a weighty matter, but today's medical advancements have significantly reduced the associated risks. With state-of-the-art technology, spinal surgeries are now safer and less invasive, ensuring a more promising and comfortable surgical experience.
AUTHOR: Dr. Payam Moazzaz is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in California specializing in robotic-assisted minimally invasive spine surgery.