Spinal instability in the vertebrae or pressure, causing nerve irritation, can cause debilitating pain. From spinal stenosis to degenerated discs and misshapen vertebrae, there are various ways your back can put you out of commission. And while surgery is never the first course of treatment, it might be the only option if other conservative treatments, including medication, physical therapy, and steroid injections, don’t solve the problem. But open surgery, whether on your spine or any other body part, comes with many health risks. That is why your Pittsburgh board certified orthopedic spine surgeon at Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center recommends minimally invasive surgery.
What is minimally invasive surgery?
Minimally invasive surgery is a method of performing surgery. It uses smaller incisions, unlike a traditional or open surgery where the surgeon makes one long incision through your skin. The surgeon uses an endoscope to work through a smaller operative field during minimally invasive surgery. But during traditional surgery, the surgeon spreads or pulls out a relatively large amount of muscle and surrounding soft tissue to see the surgical site. This causes more muscle damage and pain after surgery, but minimally invasive procedures cause less damage to muscles and soft tissues.
What spin surgeries are performed using a minimally invasive approach?
The various spine surgeries performed using the minimally invasive approach include
- Deformity corrections. Such surgeries can benefit patients with scoliosis and kyphosis.
- Spinal fusion. A common procedure for degenerative or slipped discs
- Lumbar spinal stenosis.
- Infection in the spine
- Repair and stabilization of vertebrae. Your surgeon may recommend this surgery if you have a compression fracture.
Is minimally invasive surgery an option for everyone?
Not everyone is eligible for a minimally invasive approach. There are certain indications for minimally invasive surgery, including when it is most effective and when it shouldn’t be done from a safety standpoint. People have unique needs, so each surgery must be customized for the patient and the technique. Before your specialist considers surgery as an option for you, during your evaluation, the spine care team decides if you should try other treatment options before considering surgery.
Preparing for spine surgery
In the months or weeks leading up to your procedure, you will need to:
- Exercise regularly to keep your body and muscles in shape; this helps shorten recovery time.
- Quit smoking. If you are a chronic smoker, ask your primary care physician for help. They may recommend medications or programs to help you quit smoking.
- Ensure your surgeon or surgical team reviews all products you take at least a few weeks before your appointed surgery. You may need to stop taking herbal and non-essential medications since they can react with anesthetics and other medicines you may be given.
Before surgery, the surgeon may perform different spine tests, including X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging. You may also need to take antibiotics before surgery to help prevent infection. Your provider will tell you can or can’t eat or drink the night before surgery.
For further questions about minimally invasive surgery, consult your specialist at Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center.
