Is Minimally Invasive Back Surgery Successful

People who need surgery for routine spine conditions are faced with choosing between two types of procedures: traditional back surgery, and minimally invasive back surgery. Traditional surgery involves creating a large incision along the spine, through which the surgeon accesses the affected portion of the spine. During this invasive procedure, it's not uncommon for major interventions like spinal fusion and the removal of bone to be used. In contrast, during minimally invasive back surgery, a small laser probe, a camera, and any necessary tools are inserted through two or more small incisions in the back.

Both procedures are about equally effective at relieving common spine conditions. In addition, minimally invasive back surgery has several benefits as compared to traditional surgery, including:

No need for a hospital stay
No need to go under general anesthesia
Much shorter recovery time
Lower risk of infection
Lower risk of bleeding and clotting
Lower risk of major surgical interventions

For these reasons, minimally invasive surgery is becoming the treatment of choice for many doctors and patients. A well-trained surgeon can effectively treat spine pain without resulting to the invasive procedures that defined the field in the past.

After undergoing laser spine surgery, patients can expect a certain sequence of events during the healing period. Symptoms are generally relieved on the operating table, and patients return home pain-free. For about a week, movement is relatively restricted, and patients will need to stay away from work during that time. After a few days, physical therapy is started, and patients can soon return to the workplace. After about 6 weeks, a full recovery is made, and patients can return to strenuous activities such as exercise.

To learn more about whether or not you are a candidate for minimally invasive back surgery, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.

For More Information