3 Questions and Answers About Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Healthy BackIf you have spine health problems, you probably have plenty of questions, too. Considering surgery for back issues can be daunting and, sometimes, confusing.
Dr. Sharma is happy to be your spine health advocate, answering your questions along the way and making sure the two of you are making decisions together.

 

Here are a few questions and answers about minimally invasive spine surgery to provide some basic information and to serve as a jumping off point for your next visit with Dr. Sharma:

 

1. When should I consider having minimally invasive spine surgery?

 

If solutions not involving surgery have been attempted without success, or if your condition has worsened despite non-operative treatments, then surgery may be an option for you. Certain specific conditions such as sciatica, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis or degenerative scoliosis are examples of conditions which may be treated surgically. Each patient must make the decision to have (or not to have) surgery along with his spine specialist’s guidance, taking into account his or her symptoms and level of function.

 

2. Does my diagnosis make me a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery?

 

The field of minimally invasive spine surgery is constantly evolving. Today, most surgeries can be treated with some form of minimally invasive surgery. Please note, however, that some conditions require open treatment, such as tumors, some infections, and high-degree scoliosis.

 

You and Dr. Sharma will work together to tailor the best options for your diagnosis and your overall condition.

 

3. How long does it take to recover from minimally invasive spine surgery?

 

Recovery from each surgery is different, as well as for each patient. While some patients return to full activity in about six weeks, others will need more time to make a full recovery. Dr. Sharma will help you on your journey, from pre-operation to full recovery.