Back pain afflicts millions of people worldwide, and one of the most common causes is a herniated disc. For those who must consider surgery, the term “minimally invasive discectomy” is increasingly gaining attention, and with good reason.
This surgical innovation offers potentially faster recovery times and less post-operative discomfort.
Let’s discuss minimally invasive discectomy, how it differs from traditional open surgery, and what back pain sufferers should know about this groundbreaking treatment.
Understanding Herniated Discs
Before we dive into the intricacies of minimally invasive discectomies, it’s important to understand herniated discs.
Herniated discs occur when the soft center of the spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing, bulging out into the spinal canal. This can irritate nearby nerves and result in severe back pain, muscle weakness, or numbness in an arm or leg.
The causes of herniated discs can vary from degenerative changes in the spine that occur with aging to sudden, awkward movements or trauma leading to herniation.
The traditional approach to herniated discs usually begins with conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medications. If these methods fail to provide relief, surgery becomes a consideration.
Historically, the standard discectomy involved a significant incision, more muscle trauma, and a longer recovery period.
What is a Minimally Invasive Discectomy?
A minimally invasive discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove herniated or degenerative disc material from the spine. This procedure utilizes small incisions, specialized retractors, and high-level visualization tools like microscopes or endoscopes.
Minimally Invasive Discectomy vs. Traditional Open Surgery
Traditional open surgery for herniated discs often involves a large incision, significant muscle and tissue disruption, and a lengthy recovery period. On the other hand, minimally invasive discectomy offers several advantages.
Firstly, the smaller incisions result in less muscle and tissue damage, which directly translates into reduced post-operative pain and a faster return to normal activities.
Additionally, the high level of visualization provided by the microscope or endoscope allows for more precise surgery and reduces the risk of complications.
Minimally Invasive Discectomy Procedure
Here is the step-by-step guide on minimally invasive discectomy procedures.
Step 1: Preparation
Patients are placed under general anesthesia, which means they’re asleep and can’t feel pain during the surgery. The patient is then positioned face-down on the operating table.
Step 2: Making the Incision
The surgeon makes a small incision on the patient’s back, directly over the herniated disc. This incision is typically much smaller than those used in traditional open spinal surgeries.
Step 3: Inserting the Retractor
Through this incision, the surgeon inserts a tubular retractor. This device gently pushes aside the muscles and tissues, creating a clear pathway to the affected area. Unlike open surgery, this method avoids stripping the muscle off the spinous process (a part of the spine), thereby reducing trauma.
Step 4: Removing the Disc Material
Once the pathway is clear, the surgeon uses a microscope or endoscope to get a detailed look at the herniated disc and the surrounding structures. The herniated or degenerated disc material is then carefully removed.
Step 5: Closing Up
After the removal of the disc material, the retractor is withdrawn, and the incision is closed using stitches or staples. The smaller incision speeds up the healing process and leaves a smaller scar.
Recovery and Success Rates
Post-operatively, patients are often encouraged to walk within a few hours of the surgery and can usually return to light activities within a week. Complete recovery may include physical therapy to help strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.
The success rates of minimally invasive discectomy are comparable to those of traditional open surgery. It provides lasting relief for most patients affected by leg pain associated with a herniated disc, with approximately 80 to 90% experiencing significant improvement.
For patients with disc herniations leading to severe or progressive numbness, muscle weakness, or significant loss of function, minimally invasive discectomy can offer an effective way to regain control of their lives with less disruption to their daily routine.
Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery in Colorado
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, we believe in the power of innovative, state-of-the-art treatments to help our patients regain control of their lives. One such procedure is minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS), a cutting-edge approach to treating spinal conditions, including herniated discs, with less disruption and quicker recovery times.
To learn more about our minimally invasive spinal surgery procedures or to set up a private consultation with one of our neurosurgeons, contact our friendly staff today at (303) 790-1800 or use our online appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
