What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
We perform minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) as a surgical procedure involving the use of special tools and techniques to access the spine from outside of the body. This approach avoids making large incisions, which can lead to less tissue damage and quicker recovery times. Additionally, minimally invasive techniques typically allow for needing only local anesthetic to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. By avoiding the higher-risk use of general anesthesia, patients have access to a safer procedure that still provides excellent results.
At Paragon Health Group, our board-certified spinal surgeon specializes in advanced minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and is committed to helping patients gain relief from chronic back pain. For patients suffering from various spine or back problems, we provide treatment options in Bakersfield or Newport Beach from a surgeon who delivers personalized care.
Conditions Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Can Treat
Minimally invasive spine surgery, when performed by an experienced surgeon, may offer effective treatment for various back and spine conditions, including the following:
- Spinal Stenosis — narrowing of the spinal canal. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery can help alleviate pressure on the nerves that cause pain in this condition.
- Scoliosis — a lateral curvature of the spine. A minimally invasive surgical approach can provide better outcomes for certain scoliosis cases than traditional open surgery.
- Disc Herniation — a bulging or ruptured disc that compresses nearby nerve roots and causes back pain. MISS can reduce nerve irritation and inflammation that cause pain.
- Spondylolisthesis — a condition in which one vertebra slips out of place with respect to other ones. MISS can help patients regain stability and reduce pain.
- Spinal Fractures — a break in the vertebral bones caused by trauma or a medical condition such as osteoporosis. Some spinal fractures can be treated using minimally invasive techniques.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery offers patients many benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of injury to surrounding tissue
- Decreased blood loss and less need for transfusions
- Fewer post-operative complications, such as infection or nerve damage
- Shorter recovery times and hospital stays
- Reduced scarring from a smaller incision
- Quicker return to daily activities and work.
Signs Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Is Right for You
Minimally invasive spine surgery may be right for you if you’re experiencing one or more of the following:
- Persistent pain in the back, neck, or legs that lasts for more than 2-3 weeks despite other treatments
- Recurrent pains due to a specific condition, such as spinal stenosis, disc herniation, or spondylolisthesis
- Loss of strength and movement in the legs or arms due to a nerve-related condition
- Difficulty maintaining an upright posture for long periods of time
What Is the Procedure Like?
At Paragon Health Group, your care begins with a patient consultation where our board-certified surgeon will discuss your condition and review treatment options with you. If it is determined that minimally invasive spine surgery is the best course of action, they will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
The procedure involves making a small incision near the area of your spine that needs to be treated. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon will then perform the necessary reduction or correction while viewing real-time imaging of the affected area. This enables them to make precise adjustments and limit damage to surrounding tissue.
Once complete, patients typically experience very little discomfort post-operation. Because the incision is small, there is less scarring and the risk of infection or nerve injury are lower than with traditional open surgery.
How Long Is the Recovery?
The length of time for recovery will depend on the type and severity of your condition. Generally, patients can expect to return home a few hours after the procedure and receive further instruction on any activity restrictions during their recovery period.
In most cases, pain relief is immediate or shortly thereafter; however, it can take several weeks for full healing to occur. Physical therapy is often recommended during this time to help regain range of motion and muscle strength.
At Paragon Health Group, we work closely with our patients to ensure that they understand their recovery expectations and provide support every step of the way.
What Results Can I Expect?
While every patient’s experience is unique, minimally invasive spine surgery can provide relief from many common back and neck conditions. Many patients find significant improvements in their quality of life after the procedure with reduced pain and greater mobility.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Book your visit today with a leading spine surgeon who provides minimally invasive spine surgery for Bakersfield and Newport Beach patients. Discover a path toward restored health and comfort that can allow you to reclaim your quality of life. Call us today to set up your consultation.
