There are several types of spine surgery. These include open-removal and minimally invasive surgery. The procedure is also called minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). It is less invasive than the open-removal type of spine surgery, which once required a five to six-inch incision and a month in the hospital.
Minimally invasive spine surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery is a relatively new procedure that focuses on treating spinal problems. The surgery is performed with the use of small instruments that fit through an incision in the middle of the spine. This allows the surgeon to remove bone and insert devices for fusion. While all surgeries carry some risk, minimally invasive procedures are less invasive than standard spine surgery.
In the lumbar spine, minimally invasive techniques are most common and are aimed at treating spinal stenosis. The procedure typically involves the removal of a portion of bone and excess ligament. It may also involve the removal of a laminotomy (cutting a hole through the lamina, which covers the spinal canal) to relieve pressure. A minimally invasive spinal surgery procedure may also involve the use of an endoscope. The technique is also known as endoscopic discectomy.
Endoscopic spine surgery
Endoscopic technology has advanced to the point where practitioners are able to visualize and treat pathological conditions of the spine with endoscopic tools. Previously, practitioners had to resort to open surgical approaches. These new advancements have opened up a world of possibilities for surgeons. In addition to allowing for better visualization, endoscopic technology has made it easier for practitioners to perform complex procedures. This means that patients are likely to experience fewer side effects.
Patients who undergo endoscopic spine surgery typically see a quick and complete recovery. The procedure can resolve a number of conditions, including pain from herniated discs or arthritic joints. It can even link two arthritic vertebrae together, reducing pain. The procedure can also improve mobility, especially in the arms and legs.
Microdiscectomy with lumbar microdecompression
Microdiscectomy is a spinal decompression surgery in which a herniated disc is removed. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients will experience minimal or no pain after the procedure. However, some patients may experience nerve compression, which makes the recovery process longer than usual. Patients may also experience muscle cramping and mild numbness and tingling.
The surgery can be performed on both an open or minimally invasive basis. The Dr Richard Parkinson open method involves a one to two-inch incision. The surgeon will then use a surgical microscope to identify the herniated disc and the nerve root that is compressed. The procedure may also involve the removal of a bone spur or synovial cyst that is pressing on the spinal nerve root.
TLIF
TLIF spine surgery is an in-hospital procedure that is performed to fuse the vertebrae in the lumbar spine. The procedure usually takes about one to two hours and requires general anesthesia. Patients should arrive at the hospital at least two hours before their scheduled surgery. The recovery process usually takes three to five days. During this time, patients may experience mild pain and will be given pain medication.
During the procedure, the doctor will access the affected vertebrae through the back of the spine. Then, he will insert a thin tube, which will hold special surgical instruments. The doctor will then perform the entire TLIF procedure using this tube. The surgeon will also make small incisions along the spine, which are used to insert the screws and graft. The bone graft is then used to fuse the vertebrae above and below to create a bone bridge.