What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is the latest technology available to perform spinal surgeries through small, less than one-inch-long incisions. It involves the use of special surgical instruments, devices and advanced imaging techniques to visualize and perform the surgery through such small incisions. 

Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

MISS is aimed at minimizing damage to the muscles and surrounding structures. It possesses numerous benefits over the traditional spine surgery which include:

• Small surgery scars
• Reduced risk of infections
• Less blood loss during the surgery
• Less postoperative pain
• Quicker recovery 
• Shorter hospital stay
• Quicker return to work and normal activities

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Procedure 

• Minimally invasive spine surgery is performed through small incisions. Segmental tubular retractors and dilators are then inserted through these small incisions to retract muscles and provide access to the spine by creating a working channel for the surgery.
• This minimizes the damage to the muscles and soft tissues and decreases the blood loss during the surgery. An endoscope is inserted through one of the incisions to provide images of the operation field on the monitor in the operation room.
• The surgery is performed with special surgical instruments passed through the working channel. Sometimes, surgical microscopes may also be used to magnify the visual field. The tissues fall back in place, as the various instruments are withdrawn. The incision is then closed and dressed.

Risk and Complications of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

The risks and complications of the surgery may include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, or spinal cord injury. Complications due to general anesthesia may also occur.