If you’re grappling with persistent back pain, chances are you’ve come across ads for minimally invasive spine surgery. These ads often depict the procedure as quick and simple, with claims that the incision can be closed using just a Band-Aid.
Despite the seemingly straightforward portrayal in ads, spine surgery is rarely as simple, and lasers are seldom used. Nevertheless, minimally invasive surgery offers numerous benefits. You might be wondering if it’s a viable option for your condition.
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
There are several minimally invasive approaches to spine surgery, each tailored to specific conditions, general health, and the surgeon’s expertise. These approaches involve small incisions and computer-assisted image guidance during the procedure.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, conditions treatable with small incisions include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated disc
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis)
- Spinal infections
- Spinal instability
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Spinal tumors
You may be eligible for minimally invasive surgery for low back pain if you have already tried and failed nonsurgical treatment options, and your doctor can pinpoint the source of your pain.
Surgery may not be the right option for everyone, as some patients are not candidates even with significant pain and unsuccessful alternative treatments. Your doctor, Dr. Charla Fischer, a New York spine surgeon, will guide you on the minimally invasive surgical option suitable for your spinal condition.