Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Florida

What Does Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Mean?

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MIS) is a general term used to describe a variety of surgical techniques which involve making smaller incisions and reducing the amount of tissue damage beneath the skin, thus reducing the amount of blood loss and decreasing the risk of infection.

In spinal surgery, a minimally invasive surgery procedure is accomplished with the aid of specially designed instruments which assist in visualization of the surgical field. Typically, this is done with tubular retractors which allow the surgeon to make a small incision while visualizing a larger area beneath the small incision.

Newer areas for minimally invasive procedure techniques include the fusion of two vertebrae together and expanding endoscopic procedures (meaning: the surgery is performed through little holes in the skin as opposed to a larger incision).

The field of minimally invasive spine surgery is growing rapidly and the overall trend is gearing towards more minimally invasive spinal techniques and new procedures.  Spine surgeons who perform minimally invasive spine surgery should be fully trained in the correct use of these techniques.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

The potential benefits of minimally invasive spine surgery may include:

  • Smaller incisions and scars after the operation
  • Less damage to the surrounding tissues beneath the skin
  • Less pain and decreased blood loss.

The potential outcomes of such surgical operations are the reduction of pain and morbidity associated with standard open surgery. At the moment there is insufficient data to show if minimally invasive spinal surgeries provide any short and long term benefit to patients when compared to traditional spine surgery.

Minimally Invasive Surgery FAQs

What Conditions Can be Treated Minimally Invasive?

Is everyone suitable for Minimally Invasive surgery?

No. There are many factors to consider including age, weight, lifestyle and procedure required. This must all be discussed with your spine surgeon. Typically the following groups of people are not candidates for Minimally Invasive Surgery:

  • unstable medical conditions that may lead to a higher risk of complications
  • prior spine surgery in the same location

How should I prepare for a Minimally Invasive surgery?

Prior to your surgical procedure, your physician will perform a clinical examination and a few tests . These tests may include an MRI, discography, CT scan and X-rays. speak with your surgeon about which medications you are currently taking and ask if you should stop taking them before your operation.

Once you’ve been cleared, you’ll most likely be advised not to eat or drink the night before the surgery. If you smoke, stop smoking as this slows the ability of bone to grow and repair adequately.

For a smooth recovery, make sure to prepare your home for life after surgery. You should for someone to help you at home after surgery, sometimes a home care nurse may be provided.

What can I typically expect after the procedure is performed?

After the operation, you may experience pain at the site of the surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain or anti-inflammatory medication. Take it as directed.

You will normally go through a postoperative care program with instructions to help you recover from the surgery. It is extremely important that you follow the rehabilitation guidelines given to you by your surgeon.

What are the risks associated with minimally invasive spine surgery?

Setting aside the word “minimally invasive”, it is important to remember that a minimally invasive spine procedure is still a surgery and there is always risk involved. As with any other surgery, the potential risks involve:

  • allergic reactions to medicine or the anesthesia itself
  • blood clots
  • excess bleeding
  • infection
  • pain at the graft site
  • heart malfunction
  • damage to nerve or blood vessels

How can I learn more about Minimally Invasive surgery procedures?

Your spine surgeon at Spine & Orthopedic Center will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have. Feel free to contact us at 1-888-409-8006 to request more information about or minimally invasive surgery procedures.

Patient Checklist

  • Stop smoking
  • Remove hazards at home and put items within reach
  • Stop taking aspirin and ibuprofen (or any non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs) several days before surgery
  • Don’t eat or drink after midnight prior to surgery
  • Take your pain medication as directed
  • Follow physical rehabilitation plan as prescribed
  • Do not drive until your surgeon approves
  • Schedule your post-operative exam
  • Ask your surgeon about resuming work and other activities
  • Attend follow-up exams following your rehabilitation program as recommended by your surgeon
You should call your surgeon if you notice any of the following:

  • Increased back or leg pain, numbness, tingling or weakness that does not decrease with rest
  • Swelling in your legs
  • Increased pain, redness or drainage from your incision
  • Fever
  • Chest pain

* Always follow the instructions from your physician