Keyhole Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Keyhole Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
In general, the goal of (MIS) surgery is to stabilize the vertebral bones and spinal joints and/or relieve pressure being applied to the spinal nerves — often a result of conditions such as spinal instability, bone spurs.

As opposed to open spine surgery, (MIS) approaches can be faster, safer and require less recovery time. Because of the reduced trauma to the muscles and soft tissues (compared to open procedures), the potential benefits are:

• Better cosmetic results from smaller skin incisions
• Less blood loss from surgery
• Reduced risk of infection and postoperative pain
• Faster recovery from surgery and less rehabilitation required Diminished reliance on pain medications after surgery

There are certain risks associated but are not limited to:

• Possible adverse reaction to the anesthetic
• Unexpected blood loss during the procedure
• Conditions Treated Using MIS Procedures
• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated disc
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Spinal deformities such as scoliosis
• Spinal infections
• Spinal instability including spondylolisthesis
• Vertebral compression fractures
• Spinal tumors

How Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Works
Because the spinal nerves, vertebrae and discs are located deep inside the body, any approach to gain access to the spinal area requires moving the muscle tissue out of the way. In general, this is facilitated by utilizing a small incision(s) and guiding instruments microscopic video cameras through these incisions.

A number of methods can be used to minimize trauma during Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery. Some of the more common techniques are outlined here.

Using a Tubular Retractor
Tubular Retractor technique involves progressive dilation of the soft tissues, as opposed to cutting directly through the muscles. The Tubular Retractor to keep the muscles out of the way, the surgeon works through the incision without having to expose the area widely. Once the procedure is complete, the tubular retractor can be removed and allowing the dilated tissues to come back together.

Percutaneous Placement of Screws and Rods
Depending on the condition of the patient, it may be necessary to place instrumentation, such as rods and screws, to stabilize the spine fusion of the spinal bones. The screws are placed over the guidewires and follow the path .These screws have temporary extenders that extend outside of the skin and are subsequently removed after helping to guide passage of rods .With the use of spinal navigation and robots, spinal instrumentation is being placed more safely and accurately.

Common MIS Surgery Treatment Options
A number of specific techniques deployed for MIS surgery. Though the field continues to develop. There highlights some of the most common options.

Spinal decompression
:Spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the vertebral canal, is a common condition that can result in compression of the nerves.

Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
: This is a MIS technique that is performed for patients with refractory mechanical low back and radicular pain associated with spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease and recurrent disc herniation.

Spinal decompression
:Spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the vertebral canal, is a common condition that can result in compression of the nerves. This can produce a variety of symptoms, including pain and muscle weakness.

Candidates for MIS Surgery
In some situations, MIS surgery may not be as safe or effective for open surgery. If so, the doctor will be able to inform you about the relative risks and benefits.

Device Technology


Endoscope:
A thin, fiberoptic tube with a light and lens, used to examine the interior of the patient’s body; provides minimally invasive access for diagnostic and surgical procedures.

Fluoroscope:
An imaging device that uses x-rays to view internal parts of body on a screen, intraoperatively. A small surgical incision is made through which the laparoscope is placed.

Spinal Fusion
This procedure may assist in strengthening and stabilizing the spine and help to alleviate severe and chronic back pain. Fusion may or may not involve use of supplemental hardware such as plates, screws and cages.

MIS Fusion Procedures


• Minimally Invasive Lateral Interbody Fusionz
• Minimally Invasive Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
• Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
• Minimally Invasive Posterior Thoracic Fusion