Minimally invasive spine surgery is sometimes called less invasive spine surgery. In these procedures, doctors use specialized instruments to access the spine through small incisions. In a traditional open surgery, the doctor makes an incision that is 5 to 6 inches long, then moves the muscles to the side to see the spine.

Endoscopic spine surgery is an advanced surgical technique that offers a minimally invasive approach to removing herniated disks in the lower back. In this procedure, the surgeon uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light source) to visualize and access the spine through small incisions.

Easier access to the spine, in many cases; Improved alignment of the spinal bones; Avoiding previous scar tissue if the patient has had previous lumbar surgery; In addition, a lateral fusion may be performed with a less invasive technique, resulting in reduced muscle injury.

As open surgery, in which your doctor uses a single, larger incision to access your spine. Using a minimally invasive method, where the doctor makes several smaller incisions. Your doctor will discuss with you whether posterior cervical laminoforaminotomy is an option for you and, if so, how the surgery will be performed.

The doctors can check with you during the surgery to see how you're doing and make real-time adjustments if needed. It can help you have less post-operative pain because minimally invasive techniques are used instead of large incisions. You do not need a machine to help you breathe during the surgery, so there is less stress on your heart and ...

Minimally invasive knee replacement is an evolving area, and more research is needed on the long-term function and durability. The short-term benefit of minimally invasive total knee replacement is reported to be less damage to soft tissue, leading to a quicker, less painful recovery and more rapid return to normal activities.

In minimally invasive surgery, the surgeon makes a smaller surgical incision and cuts or detaches fewer muscles around the hip. Despite this difference, however, both traditional hip replacement surgery and minimally invasive surgery are technically demanding and have better outcomes if the surgeon and operating team have considerable experience.

In a lateral approach, your surgeon approaches your spine from the side. (Related Article: Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion) Minimally invasive techniques have also been developed. These allow fusions to be performed with smaller incisions. The right procedure for you will depend on the nature and location of your disease. Watch: Spinal Fusion ...

There are several different types of spinal fusion surgery; your doctor will talk with you about which one is appropriate in your situation. This article focuses on posterolateral lumbar fusion — the most common type of spinal fusion — and discusses …

This approach can decrease pain and help you feel better sooner. However, the biological fusing of the spine takes the same amount of time whether you have traditional or minimally invasive surgery. In addition, expandable cage technology enables surgeons to insert smaller devices which are then expanded to fit your anatomy.