3 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

The first minimally invasive spine surgery (MISSs) was performed in the early 1990’s. Since that time, Orthopedic Spine Surgeons continuously improved surgical techniques and equipment to improve patient comfort and quality of life. As a result, almost all traditionally open procedures can now be performed with a minimally invasive approach. This benefits patients because they:

1. Experience less post-surgical pain. Tiny instruments and accurate medical imaging allow surgeons to make a smaller incision (2-5-cms instead of 5-6-inches). Because of this, the muscles that surround the spine can be left intact and thus patients are more comfortable after surgery.
2. Receive less surgical anesthesia. In most cases, less time is needed to perform a successful MISS procedure. The risk of potential      side effects associated with anesthesia or other medications used during surgery is decreased.
3. Recover faster. Decreased muscle damage, blood loss, and pain allow for a quicker recovery. Less time is spent in the hospital after surgery and many patients are able to return home the same day as their procedure. This reduced damage to the muscles and tissue can also shorten the physical therapy protocol following surgery.

If Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery is a practical treatment option for their condition/injury, patients can look forward to the benefits above. However, it should be noted that the following factors contribute to a successful MISS procedure and subsequent recovery:

• Health
• Physical condition
• Other health conditions

Patients who have pre-existing medical conditions, are in poor physical condition, and/or use tobacco might not be candidates for a MISS procedure—the decision is always up to the surgeon.

Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for You?

If you’re experiencing back pain or neck pain that won’t go away on its own, please don’t hesitate to contact our offices in Glen Rock and Maywood, NJ to arrange an appointment. One of our highly trained orthopedic spine surgeons will examine your condition/injury and come up with a treatment option that’s right for you. The road to a full recovery will begin when you walk through our doors.

The spine specialists at New Jersey Spinal Medicine and Surgery treat conditions of the cervical and lumbar spine using both non-surgical and surgical modalities.  New Jersey Spinal Medicine and Surgery is led by Dr. Dante Implicito and Dr. John Koerner. Both physicians have extensive training and experience in the utilization of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery techniques as well as non-surgical techniques. Our doctors are regarded as New Jersey’s leading experts in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.