Medical technology has made it possible for surgeons to operate using smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. These advances normally result in shorter hospital stays and improved patient comfort. This type of surgery is known as “minimally invasive” and includes minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS).
During a typical minimally invasive spine surgery, a thin tube called a tubular retractor is inserted through a small incision in the skin. This tubular retractor is inserted so that it gently pushes the muscles and other tissues aside, rather than cutting through them as is done in traditional surgical procedures. The end result is much less tissue damage. An operating microscope, or a tiny camera, is then inserted to enable the surgeon to view the inside of the patient without the need for a larger incision. Specially designed surgical instruments are inserted through the tube, allowing the surgeon to manipulate, cut and sew tissues.
Minimally invasive surgery can result in less scarring, fewer surgical complications and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. It is important to note, however, that not all patients and not all problems are appropriate for minimally invasive surgery. The most appropriate surgical treatment should be determined by your surgeon to be sure you will have the best surgical results.
More information about minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) is available here.
Conditions treated using minimally invasive Spine Surgery at Valley View Hospital by Dr. Miller include:
- Degenerative disc disease of the neck or back
- Herniated discs of the neck or back
- Spinal stenosis of the neck or back
- Spinal instability and deformity found in degenerative spondylolisthesis
- Selected spinal tumors
