When it comes to spine surgery, there are several different types of procedures available. There is open spine surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). Minimally invasive surgery, also called MIS, involves minimal surgical invasion. Older open spine surgeries, even for small disc problems, required a five to six-inch incision and a month in the hospital.
Laminectomy
Laminectomy is a type of spine surgery in which the bone that attaches vertebrae to the spinal column is removed. The surgeon uses small instruments to cut the bone spurs from the spine. This procedure is also called decompression. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove a broken disk.
The most common reason for a laminectomy is a herniated disc. This can be caused by an accident or simply wear and tear. Either way, the affected disc presses on spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. The symptoms will most likely be felt in the legs. Most people suffering from herniated discs experience sciatica, a sharp pain running along the sciatic nerve.
Minimally invasive spine surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery is a common type of spine surgery that minimizes the amount of tissue damaged during the procedure. Its goal is to stabilize the vertebrae and relieve pressure on spinal nerves. It can be used to treat a variety of problems, including spinal instability, herniated discs, scoliosis, and spinal tumors. Because the incisions are small, the recovery time is faster, and patients can return to normal activities faster.
When performing minimally invasive spine surgery, the surgeon will create fewer incisions and use a small camera attached to an endoscope to examine the spine. The goal of minimally invasive spine surgery is to produce the same or better results as traditional open surgery.
Endoscopic spine surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is a new technique that allows surgeons to operate on the spine without using general anesthesia. The procedure is performed using tiny incisions that do not require stitches and carries a low risk of infection. The procedure also restores natural spinal mobility and flexibility. Patients generally experience less pain and less recovery time than other spine surgeries.
In this procedure, a tiny camera or endoscope is inserted through an 8-millimeter incision. The Dr Richard Parkinson images it generates are then projected onto a monitor. The surgeon then uses surgical instruments inserted through this channel to remove problematic bone spurs. The incision is then closed using sutures and surgical tape.
Transforaminal spine surgery
Transforaminal spine surgery is a technique that helps relieve pain from lumbar discs. It is an alternative to traditional fusion surgery. In the last few years, it has proven to be a safe and effective treatment for patients suffering from low-grade discogenic pain. However, it is not without risks.
During the procedure, a small incision is made on the patient’s back, which allows surgeons to reach the spinal cord and nerves without disturbing the healthy tissues. They can also avoid damaging important spinal ligaments or muscles during the procedure. Another benefit is the quick recovery after the procedure.