How Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Minimizes Risk

If you’re considering spine surgery, you may be concerned about the risks involved.

Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have led to the development of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), a technique that minimizes risks compared to traditional open surgery.

Here’s how MISS can be a safer option for you.

Reduced Trauma with Smaller Incisions

Firstly, smaller incisions mean less trauma to your body. In traditional spine surgery, large incisions are required to access the spine, resulting in significant muscle and tissue disruption. MISS, on the other hand, uses small incisions, often less than an inch. This reduced trauma leads to less pain post-surgery and a quicker recovery.

Lower Risk of Infection

Secondly, MISS reduces the risk of infection. The smaller incisions decrease the exposure of internal tissues to external environments, thereby significantly lowering the chance of post-operative infections. This is crucial, as infections can lead to severe complications and prolonged hospital stays.

Minimized Blood Loss

Blood loss during surgery is another concern. MISS techniques often result in less blood loss compared to traditional spine surgeries. This reduced blood loss minimizes the need for transfusions, decreasing your risk of transfusion-related complications and speeding up your recovery process.

Enhanced Surgical Precision

Also, consider that MISS offers greater precision. The use of advanced imaging techniques, like real-time X-ray (fluoroscopy) and computer-assisted navigation, allows surgeons to perform procedures with enhanced accuracy. This precision is vital for avoiding damage to surrounding nerves and tissues, which can be a risk in traditional spine surgery.

Smoother Recovery Process

Finally, the recovery process is often smoother with MISS. Due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, many patients experience shorter hospital stays and can return to their normal activities more quickly. This not only benefits your physical health but also your emotional well-being, as a faster return to normal life can positively impact your mental health.

If you’re facing spine surgery, discussing minimally invasive options with your surgeon could be a step toward a safer procedure with a quicker recovery.

Virginia Spine Specialists is an award-winning, minimally invasive spinal care practice with locations in Fredericksburg, VA and Manassas, VA. We also serve these Northern and Central Virginia locations: Haymarket, Gainesville, Culpepper, Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Colonial Beach, Tappahannock and Lake Anna.