Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), as the name implies, is a type of surgery that uses smaller incisions to treat the spine through the use of innovative techniques and advanced technology. MISS is often favored over the more traditional open back surgery because it causes less muscle or tissue trauma. And unlike open back surgery, MISS only requires small incisions that’s why there is less pain and recovery time is faster, too.
What Conditions Can MISS Treat?
MISS is mostly used for spinal conditions such as herniated disc, fractured vertebra, spondylolysis, spinal stenosis, spinal instability, scoliosis, and infections in the spine. It can also be used to remove tumors located in the spine. However, before your doctor suggests any spine surgery, he or she will first recommend that you undergo non-invasive treatments first such as physical therapy or medicines.
If that doesn’t work, that’s the only time your doctor will recommend some spine surgery based on your case. However, you must understand that MISS does not work with all types of spine surgery.
Advantages Of MISS
All types of surgery, whether minimally invasive or not, carries various risks of complications. However, complication risks are considerably lower for MISS because of the smaller incisions needed than open back surgery. This means there is less chance of excessive bleeding.
There is also less risk of muscle and tissue damage because MISS does not require the muscle and soft tissue to be pulled aside while the procedure is being done. This also means that there is less pain after the surgery which leads to a shorter stay at the hospital and faster recovery time.
Final Thoughts
Your doctor in NJ will let you know if you are a good candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery. However, you need to understand that MISS also has some risks. These risks will vary based on the type of surgery, your age, and your overall health. Likewise, recovery time will also vary from patient to patient.
