Minimally invasive lumbar surgery is a surgical technique that may be performed to treat degenerative disc disease, tumors, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and spinal infections. This minimally invasive procedure includes surgical techniques like lumbar fusion, lumbar discectomy, and lumbar laminectomy, designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and compressed nerves. Dr. Andrew K. Simpson, a board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon, provides personalized nonsurgical and surgical treatment methods for a wide range of spinal conditions in Dallas. He also offers specialized postoperative care and pain management for patients to promote spine health and a quicker recovery time. Contact Dr. Simpson for a minimally invasive spine surgery Dallas appointment today, especially if you are seeking expert care for your lumbar spine issues.
Spinal surgery can be performed by two different approaches; one is the conventional open surgical approach, and the other is the advanced minimally invasive approach using minimally invasive surgical techniques. Each approach has its own advantages and preferences. However, the minimally invasive technique is a more advanced approach with a higher success rate, less pain, reduced postoperative pain, and a minimal level of patient discomfort, offering faster recovery and less damage to muscles, bone, and surrounding structures compared to traditional spine surgery.
A minimally invasive technique is more beneficial for a few lumbar surgeries, including those that treat conditions such as severe pain, nerve compression, and ruptured disc. Some of the common minimally invasive lumbar surgical procedures include lumbar discectomy, minimally invasive lumbar fusion using bone graft to stabilize two or more vertebrae, and lumbar decompression surgery such as lumbar laminectomy to relieve pressure on the spinal canal caused by bone spurs or other factors.
Procedure for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Surgery Dallas
As compared with conventional open surgery, minimally invasive surgery requires small incisions and highly advanced tools for the surgery, which hasten recovery and decrease the chances of damage to the surrounding soft tissues. The basic steps involved in minimally invasive lumbar surgery performed by minimally invasive lumbar spine surgeons under general anesthesia are as follows:
- X-ray imaging is employed to decide the precise location of the small incisions to approach the affected segment of the spine, helping preserve spinal function and spinal health.
- Specially designed portals called trocars are then inserted through these small incisions to aid in the use of the operating instruments in the operating room.
- The entire minimally invasive procedure is conducted by a spine doctor under fluoroscopic guidance to minimize complications and ensure precision.
- During the surgery, real-time X-ray imaging through the C-arm assists in the use of specially designed instruments such as the sextant device. The sextant device is employed for drilling a tunnel into the spine for fixing the screws and plates that stabilize the spine, often as part of a spinal fusion procedure.
- After the procedure, all the instruments along with the portals are removed, and the incisions are closed with surgical glue, promoting a pain-free recovery and reducing the risk of complications.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgeries
Minimally invasive lumbar surgery has many advantages over the conventional surgical procedure, which include:
- Minimal damage to the adjacent tissues
- Reduced post-operative pain
- Reduced hospital stay
- Shorter recovery phase
- Reduced blood loss
- Minimal patient stress
Post-Operative Care
The patient who undergoes a minimally invasive surgery requires a shorter period of post-operative care as compared to that of a patient undergoing open surgery. The post-operative instructions depend upon the type of surgery and the quality of the hospital or surgical center, which impacts the recovery environment and outcomes. However, a few general instructions for patients after a minimally invasive lumbar surgery include:
- Keep the incision clean and dry
- Avoid movements such as bending and twisting, for at least 6 weeks
- Regular intake of the prescribed medications
- Avoid lifting heavy objects
Strict adherence to postoperative instructions from your minimally invasive lumbar surgery specialist, including follow-up physical therapy and avoiding heavy lifting, reduces complications.
Risks Associated with Minimally Invasive Surgeries
As with open surgery, the possible risks associated with minimally invasive surgery include infection, reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, and damage to the spinal nerves during the procedure.
Recovery typically takes 3 to 6 weeks after surgery, and postoperative hospitalization includes a rehabilitation program to support healing and improve quality of life.
