Keyhole/Minimal Invasive Spinal Surgery

Overview

During (MISS), the healthcare provider makes one or more smaller incision. They then insert a device called a tubular retractor. This is a stiff tubed shaped tool. It creates a tunnel to the problem area of the spine. It gently pushes the muscle and soft tissue around the area. The surgeon can then put small tools through the tunnel to work on the spine. 

The surgeon also uses a special operating microscope , high resolution cameras, computer assisted and robotic guidance, and real time x-rays of the spine. Surgeons can use (MISS) for some types of spine surgery. These include lumbar or cervical discectomy , decompressive laminectomy, and spinal fusion with metal rods and screws. spine is the premier option for keyhole spine surgery as they provide world class care with advanced techniques.

Indications that I need minimal invasive spinal surgery

Most of the people who have back pain will not need surgery. Your healthcare provider might advise spine surgery if you have a back problem that has not gotten better with another treatment, such as medicine, chiropractic care or physical therapy. If you still have a lot of pain, surgery on your spine might fix the problem.

Pre procedure

Talk with your healthcare provider about how to prepare for your surgery. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take. This includes over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin. You may need to stop taking some medicines ahead of time, such as blood thinners. If you smoke or use nicotine products, you will need to stop before your surgery. Nicotine can delay healing. Before surgery, you may need imaging tests these may include x-rays or MRI. Follow any directions you are given for not eating or drinking before your surgery. Tell your healthcare provider about any recent changes in your health, such as fever.

Procedure

You may have a type of anesthesia that numbs part of your body. You will also be given sedation. This will make you fel relaxed but awake during surgery or you may be given general anesthesia. This prevents pain and causes you to sleep through the surgery. A healthcare provider will carefully watch your vital signs, like your heart rate and blood pressure, during the surgery. You may be given antibiotics before and after the surgery. 

This is to help prevent infection. During the procedure your surgeon will use a special type of x-ray to view the surgery. The healthcare provider will make a small incision on your back in the area that needs to be treated. A tubular retractor is put into this incision. This will expose the part of the spine to be treated. Your healthcare provider will then make the needed repairs to the spine. Once the repairs are done the tools and retractor are removed. The incisions are closed with stitches, glue or staples a small bandage is put on the wound.

Post procedure

you will have some pain after the surgery. This can be relieved with pain medicines, cold packs and walking regularly. Ask your healthcare provider if there are any over-the-counter pain medicines you should not take. Often, the pain will go fairly quickly. You can resume a normal diet as soon as you are able to.