Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is an advanced surgical approach that aims to treat spinal conditions with less disruption to surrounding tissues compared to traditional open surgery. It utilizes specialized techniques and tools to access and treat the spine through small incisions, often with the assistance of imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or intraoperative navigation.

Here are some key aspects of minimally invasive spine surgery:

1. Smaller incisions: Unlike traditional open spine surgery, which involves large incisions, MISS involves smaller incisions, typically ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length. These smaller incisions result in less damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the spine.
2. Reduced muscle and tissue trauma: By using specialized instruments and techniques, minimally invasive procedures minimize disruption to surrounding muscles and soft tissues. This can lead to less postoperative pain, reduced blood loss, and a shorter recovery period.
3. Use of endoscopic or tubular retractors: Minimally invasive techniques often involve the use of endoscopes or tubular retractors, which allow the surgeon to access the spine through a small tube-like device. These instruments provide a pathway to the affected area while minimizing the need for extensive tissue dissection.
4. Image guidance: Minimally invasive spine surgeries frequently employ intraoperative imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or real-time navigation systems. These technologies provide detailed visualization of the surgical area, allowing the surgeon to navigate and perform precise procedures with improved accuracy.
5. Targeted treatment: Minimally invasive approaches allow surgeons to target specific spinal conditions with greater precision. This may include procedures such as discectomy (removal of herniated disc material), laminectomy (removal of a portion of the lamina to relieve spinal cord or nerve root compression), spinal fusion, or the placement of spinal implants.
6. Potential benefits: Minimally invasive spine surgery aims to achieve identical, if not superior, clinical outcomes to traditional open surgery.  Benefits include smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, faster return home (often the same day), faster recovery, and quicker return to daily activities.

It’s important to note that while the majority of conditions can be treated with minimally invasive spine surgery, not all are candidates.  The decision to undergo MISS depends on factors such as the specific diagnosis, the severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise. A qualified spine specialist can evaluate an individual’s case and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on their unique circumstances.  At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine we have spine surgeons who have extensive experience doing minimally invasive spine surgery improving outcomes and decreasing postoperative pain.  We frequently see second or third opinions for patients who have been offered traditional surgery where minimally invasive surgery is an option.  Even in cases of revision and deformity, minimally invasive or hybrid “mini-open” techniques can be employed to achieve goals of care with less trauma, injury, and faster return to activity with reduced risk.