What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery is a general term used to describe the performance of surgery through small incision(s), usually with the aid of endoscopic visualization (i.e., very small devices or cameras designed for viewing internal portions of the body).
It's important to recognize that not all patients are appropriate candidates for MIS procedures. A Minimally Invasive Spine Procedure should offer certainty that the same or better results can be achieved through MIS techniques as with the respective open procedure. As a New York City surgeon who is highly qualified in the use of Minimally Invasive techniques, Dr. Goldstein reviews each case for the most appropriate procedure.
Why Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Useful?
Minimally invasive spine surgery was developed out of the desire to treat disorders of the spine with with minimal muscle related injury, and with a more rapid recovery. Traditional surgical approaches to spine surgery often involve large incisions which naturally result in damage to muscle. A smaller incision normally means less muscle damage as a result of the incision. Less muscle damage can result in quicker recovery, decrease operative blood loss, and speed patient return to normal function.
Because MIS procedures use video-assisted equipment, the surgeon normally has better visualization and magnification of internal organs and structure. For patients, this translates into a more accurate and definitive procedure.
Quicker Return to Normal Activity
Blood transfusions are rarely needed in minimally invasive procedures. Patients usually leave the recovery room quickly, returning to a regular surgical nursing unit shortly after surgery.
Hospital stays of up to two weeks for traditional surgery are often reduced to a couple of days. In many cases, patients can resume non-strenuous activities in days or weeks. Because patients experience only minimal pain and are eager to become active again, it's necessary to remember that your body still needs time to heal.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy
Dr. Goldstein also recommends this overview of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Dr. Goldstein is recognized as one of the leading spine surgeons in New York. He is a Clinical Professore of Orthopedic Surgery and Neurosurgery at the NYU School of Medicine. His expertise is sought by television, media, and magazines. His practice is focused on surgical treatment:
Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein was recognized again in 2021 as one of America's Top Doctors .
Dr. Goldstein serves as Director of Education, Division of Spine Surgery and Director of the Spine Surgery Fellowship at NYU Langone Health (previously Medical Center Hospital for Joint Diseases.)
Patients from around the world travel to New York for the most advanced medical care. New York offers unrivalled facilities, accommodation, and infrastructure.
