What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Opposed to traditional spine surgeries, minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is done with a hollow tube, called a tubular retractor, that is inserted via a small incision. Using the retractor the surgeon can see and have access to the affected area all while causing less trauma to any encompassing tissues and muscles.

The tubular retractor can also be used to insert any surgical implements and any needed surgical hardware like rods or screws. MISS is entirely done by a real-time x-ray machine, a fluoroscopy, which helps ensure that the spinal surgeon is able to carefully repair and treat the target area.

Be aware that not all kinds of spinal surgery can be done with MISS, and that you might have to have traditional surgery done instead. Examples of conditions that minimally invasive spine surgery can be done for are spinal deformities like scoliosis, spinal infections, or spinal tumors. Because MISS is done with a smaller incision there is a reduced risk of complications during both surgery and post-surgery, less damaged to the muscles and tissues around the spine, and a faster recovery time.

Minimally invasive spine surgery should only be considered after other options such as conservative therapies have not worked. Be sure to contact an orthopedic specialist to ensure for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Contact Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute to make an appointment with New Jersey orthopedic surgeons.