Minimally invasive spine surgery is a group of surgical techniques whose main objective is to reduce the trauma associated with the approach to the spine. This technological advance is due above all to technical advances in visualization and optical illumination (endoscopy and operating microscope) and to specific instrumentation designed to enable so-called “minimally invasive” approaches.
Patient comfort is enhanced by reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays and a faster return to normal physical activity.
In our department, these minimally invasive techniques are routinely used for cervical and lumbar disc surgery, as well as for spinal fusion procedures.
Some patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery to treat a herniated disc may be able to go home the same day, usually the day after the procedure, and return to work within 2 to 4 weeks.
These techniques also enable minimally invasive spinal instrumentation. Vertebral compression fractures, e.g. in elderly patients suffering from osteoporosis, can also be treated using minimally invasive techniques (kyphoplasty).
Not all patients can benefit from these minimally invasive approaches. If surgery is required, your neurosurgeon will discuss with you whether a minimally invasive technique may be an option.