How Long Does Laser Back Surgery Take

If you suffer from a spine condition such as a herniated disc or bulging disc that hasn't responded to conservative treatments, you may be a good candidate for laser back surgery. Laser back surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that has helped many patients recover from spine conditions without undergoing invasive open spine surgery. One of the biggest advantages of laser back surgery is that the procedure does not take long to perform and the recovery time is short.

About Laser Back Surgery

Laser back surgery allows doctors to treat your spine without creating a large incision. There is no need to cut through muscle, bone, and other tissue; instead, the physician makes one or two small incisions, about the size of a needle, near the affected area of the spine. Through these incisions, the doctor inserts a laser probe, a camera, and any necessary tools. 

Laser spine surgery does not take as much time as traditional spine surgery. This is largely thanks to the fact that there is no need to create a large incision, stitch the incision, cut through bone, or add hardware to fuse bones.

In most cases, laser back surgery takes no more than an hour to perform. However, you will be in the office for several hours before and after the procedure for preparation and observation. After the physician has observed you and you are no longer sedated, you may return home.

Recovery

The recovery from laser spine surgery takes place entirely at home - there is no need for a hospital stay. The recovery time is much shorter and more comfortable than that associated with traditional spine surgery. The majority of patients who work desk jobs are able to return to work within about a week. For a few weeks after surgery, activity is restricted and physical therapy may be necessary. You should make a full recovery within 6 weeks of the surgery.

Patients can take some steps to ensure that they recover as quickly as possible after laser spine surgery. For example, you can be aware of the signs of complications like infection so that you can call your doctor if any problems arise; you can be proactive about moving around as much as recommended and attending physical therapy; and you can avoid over-exerting yourself in the immediate recovery period.

Only a doctor can tell you whether or not laser spine surgery is right for you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at (212) 430-0312.