What is Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Traditionally, spine surgery was always performed using an “open” technique which involves a long incision down the middle of the back or neck which allows the surgeon to access the spine. However, as the medical field as advanced, a new technique called Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MIS) has gained momentum.
Minimally Invasive surgery does not involve a long incision in the back muscles and therefore prevents a lot of unnecessary damage. Although the indications for MIS surgery were relatively few in the 1990’s, recent advancements in technologies have increased the number of conditions for which this technique can be used. Spinal discectomy, spinal decompression and even scoliosis correction can now be performed minimally invasively. Dr. Varun Agarwal has a specialization in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery.
WHY IS MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY BETTER?
Since minimally invasive surgery is performed through a small tube inserted through the back muscles, there is less damage to the muscles. The hole surgery is viewed through a microscope which gives the surgeon a wider view field. Advantages include:
Less post-operative pain
Quicker recovery after the surgery
Reduced Blood loss during the surgery Less damage to the muscles, ligaments and tendons in and around your spine Smaller surgical incisions on your skin (Better cosmetically)
Less scarring of tissue Improved function of muscles after surgery Hence, Dr. Varun Agarwal recommends that you opt for minimally invasive surgeries whenever possible. He is an expert in Minimally Invasive and Endoscopic Spine Surgery and has even established the first endoscopic spine center in Bareilly. To know more click here to contact us.
Some Minimally Invasive Surgeries that are performed today have been mentioned below:
MICROSCOPIC DECOMPRESSION
This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure which is performed to relieve pressure and alleviate pain that is caused by pressing of the disk or a bony protuberance on the spinal nerves. In this procedure, a small incision is made on the skin after which the soft tissue is gently put aside. Then, the part that is putting the pressure on the spinal nerves is removed. This minimally invasive approach usually leaves a patient with a minor scar and the patient may even go home the same day as the operation or the next day, depending on the level of pain. Dr. Varun Agarwal will present you with a full post-operative plan so that you are able to take care of yourself after the surgery.
Minimally Invasive TLIF
TLIF stands for Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion. It was originally performed as an “open” surgery in which the surgeon makes a midline incision through your muscles but now it can be done minimally invasively and Dr. Varun Agarwal is an expert at performing minimally invasive TLIF surgery. The basic concept behind the surgery is that addition of more bone to the region where the damaged disk was present, allows more stability of the spine and prevents irritation of nerves and therefore sensation of pain. This procedure is termed as ‘fusion’ in which two vertebrae are connected by bone growth. A spacer is inserted into the disk space to restore the normal height of the spine. In the minimally invasive approach, this whole procedure is done through a narrow tube, almost as small as a coin. For any additional support, the surgeon may implant screws and rods in the spine, if needed. Bone graft may be placed on these implants to form sort of a bone bridge.