Procedures Offered
Procedures Offered
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Microdiscectomy
What is a Microdiscectomy?
A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery used to remove part of a herniated or damaged disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve. This procedure is often performed to relieve leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by nerve compression in the lower back (lumbar spine).
Why Microdiscectomy is Performed
A microdiscectomy may be recommended if:
- You have a lumbar herniated disc causing persistent leg pain, weakness, or numbness
- Conservative treatments (medications, physical therapy, injections) have not provided relief
- You are experiencing nerve compression symptoms that affect daily activities or mobility
- There is a risk of permanent nerve damage
- You have a lumbar herniated disc causing persistent leg pain, weakness, or numbness
Benefits of Microdiscectomy
- Smaller incision compared to open surgery
- Reduced muscle and tissue disruption
- Less postoperative pain
- Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge)
- Faster return to normal activities
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – Usually performed under general anesthesia.
- Small incision – Typically 1–2 inches over the affected spinal level.
- Microscope/Loupes assistance – A surgical microscope or magnified glasses are used for precision and to minimize tissue disruption.
- Disc removal – The surgeon carefully removes the portion of the herniated disc pressing on the nerve.
- Closure – The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Recovery After Microdiscectomy
- Hospital stay – Most patients go home the same day.
- Pain management – Mild discomfort is common and managed with medication.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged soon after surgery; heavy lifting and twisting should be avoided until cleared.
- Physical therapy – May be recommended to strengthen core muscles and support spinal healing.
- Return to work – Light duty may resume within 2–4 weeks; full activity may take 6–8 weeks.
Risks and Possible Complications
While microdiscectomy is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection
- Nerve injury, causing weakness or numbness
- Recurrence of disc herniation
- Dural tear (spinal fluid leak)
- Persistent symptoms despite surgery
Is Microdiscectomy Right for You?
Microdiscectomy is often the gold standard surgical treatment for lumbar disc herniation with nerve compression that hasn’t responded to non-surgical care. A spine specialist can confirm the diagnosis through a physical exam and imaging studies such as an MRI.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Microdiscectomy
What is a Microdiscectomy?
A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery used to remove part of a herniated or damaged disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve. This procedure is often performed to relieve leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by nerve compression in the lower back (lumbar spine).
Why Microdiscectomy is Performed
A microdiscectomy may be recommended if:
- You have a lumbar herniated disc causing persistent leg pain, weakness, or numbness
- Conservative treatments (medications, physical therapy, injections) have not provided relief
- You are experiencing nerve compression symptoms that affect daily activities or mobility
- There is a risk of permanent nerve damage
Benefits of Microdiscectomy
- Smaller incision compared to open surgery
- Reduced muscle and tissue disruption
- Less postoperative pain
- Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge)
- Faster return to normal activities
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – Usually performed under general anesthesia.
- Small incision – Typically 1–2 inches over the affected spinal level.
- Microscope/Loupes assistance – A surgical microscope or magnified glasses are used for precision and to minimize tissue disruption.
- Disc removal – The surgeon carefully removes the portion of the herniated disc pressing on the nerve.
- Anesthesia – Usually performed under general anesthesia.
Recovery After Microdiscectomy
- Hospital stay – Most patients go home the same day.
- Pain management – Mild discomfort is common and managed with medication.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged soon after surgery; heavy lifting and twisting should be avoided until cleared.
- Physical therapy – May be recommended to strengthen core muscles and support spinal healing.
- Return to work – Light duty may resume within 2–4 weeks; full activity may take 6–8 weeks.
Risks and Possible Complications
While microdiscectomy is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection
- Nerve injury, causing weakness or numbness
- Recurrence of disc herniation
- Dural tear (spinal fluid leak)
- Persistent symptoms despite surgery
Is Microdiscectomy Right for You?
Microdiscectomy is often the gold standard surgical treatment for lumbar disc herniation with nerve compression that hasn’t responded to non-surgical care. A spine specialist can confirm the diagnosis through a physical exam and imaging studies such as an MRI.
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion?
Minimally invasive spine fusion is a surgical procedure that stabilizes one or more segments of the spine by fusing vertebrae together using small incisions and specialized instruments. Compared to traditional open fusion surgery, minimally invasive techniques reduce muscle disruption, blood loss, and recovery time while still providing spinal stability and pain relief.
Why Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion is Performed
This procedure may be recommended for patients with:
- Degenerative disc disease causing chronic pain
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebrae)
- Spinal instability from trauma, tumors, or arthritis
- Recurrent herniated discs or failed prior spine surgery
- Spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion
- Smaller incisions with less tissue and muscle disruption
- Reduced blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
- Decreased postoperative pain and scarring
- Earlier return to daily activities compared to traditional open fusion
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – General anesthesia is used.
- Small incisions – Typically several 1–2 inch incisions along the affected area.
- Surgical guidance – Fluoroscopy or navigation systems help guide instruments precisely.
- Disc and vertebrae preparation – Damaged disc material is removed, and the vertebrae are prepared for fusion.
- Bone graft and hardware placement – Bone graft (from the patient or donor) and screws, rods, or cages stabilize the spine.
- Closure – Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Recovery After Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion
- Hospital stay – Usually 1–3 days, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
- Pain management – Pain medication, ice/heat therapy, and gentle movement.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged early; lifting, bending, and twisting are restricted initially.
- Physical therapy – Helps restore strength, mobility, and posture.
- Return to normal activity – Light activities within a few weeks; full recovery may take several months.
Risks and Possible Complications
Although minimally invasive fusion reduces risks compared to open surgery, potential complications include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Nonunion (failure of vertebrae to fuse properly)
- Hardware complications (screws, rods, or cages)
- Persistent pain or need for additional surgery
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion Right for You?
Minimally invasive spine fusion may be a good option if you need spinal stabilization but want less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars than traditional fusion. A spine specialist can determine candidacy based on your condition, imaging studies, and overall health.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
What is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to treat certain spine conditions using a tiny camera (endoscope) and specialized instruments. Unlike traditional open spine surgery, endoscopic surgery requires only small incisions, which often results in less pain, quicker recovery, and reduced scarring.
Common Conditions Treated
Endoscopic spine surgery can address a variety of spine issues, including:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Foraminal stenosis (nerve compression at the spinal exit)
- Facet joint pain
- Certain cases of degenerative disc disease
- Herniated or bulging discs
Benefits of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
- Smaller incisions and minimal tissue disruption
- Less postoperative pain and scarring
- Shorter hospital stay or outpatient procedure
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Reduced risk of infection compared to traditional open surgery
What to Expect Before Surgery
- Medical evaluation – Including imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray) to identify the problem area
- Discussion of surgical plan – Surgeon explains the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes
- Preoperative preparation – Blood tests, medication review, and anesthesia evaluation
The Procedure
- The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the endoscope to visualize the spine
- Specialized instruments are used to remove or repair the affected tissue
- Real-time imaging guides precise treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues
Recovery After Surgery
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient, or 1–2 days in the hospital depending on complexity
- Pain management – Medications and ice/heat therapy as needed
- Physical therapy – Gentle exercises to restore strength, mobility, and posture
- Activity restrictions – Avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or high-impact activity until cleared
- Follow-up visits – To monitor healing and spinal stability
Risks and Considerations
While minimally invasive, endoscopic spine surgery still carries potential risks:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Recurrence of disc herniation or spinal stenosis
- Incomplete symptom relief, requiring further treatment
- Rare complications related to anesthesia
Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery Right for You?
Endoscopic spine surgery may be an option if:
- You have a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments
- You want a minimally invasive approach with faster recovery
- You are a candidate based on imaging, age, overall health, and surgeon assessment
What is SI Joint Fusion?
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the pelvis. Dysfunction or instability in this joint can cause chronic lower back, buttock, or leg pain. SI joint fusion is a surgical procedure that stabilizes the joint, reducing abnormal motion and relieving pain. This can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, which result in smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and faster recovery.
Why SI Joint Fusion is Performed?
SI joint fusion may be recommended if:
- Chronic lower back or buttock pain originates from the SI joint
- Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections have failed
- Pain interferes with daily activities, work, or sleep
- Joint instability or degeneration is confirmed by imaging and diagnostic tests
Benefits of SI Joint Fusion
- Significant reduction in pain from an unstable or arthritic SI joint
- Minimally invasive approach with small incisions and minimal tissue disruption
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery
- Earlier return to daily activities and improved mobility
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – Typically performed under general anesthesia.
- Small incision – A 1–2 inch incision is made over the SI joint.
- Joint preparation – Damaged cartilage is removed to allow fusion.
- Implant placement – Screws or rods are inserted across the SI joint to stabilize and promote fusion.
- Closure – Incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Recovery After SI Joint Fusion
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient or 1–2 days depending on procedure complexity.
- Pain management – Medications and gentle activity are used to manage discomfort.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged soon after surgery; lifting, twisting, and high-impact activities are restricted initially.
- Physical therapy – Strengthening and mobility exercises to support recovery.
- Return to normal activity – Many patients resume light activity within a few weeks; full recovery can take several months.
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient or 1–2 days depending on procedure complexity.
Risks and Possible Complications
While SI joint fusion is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Nonunion (failure of the joint to fuse properly)
- Persistent pain or incomplete symptom relief
- Implant-related complications (loosening or breakage)
Is SI Joint Fusion Right for You?
SI joint fusion may be an effective solution if non-surgical treatments have failed and your pain is confirmed to come from the SI joint. A spine or orthopedic specialist can determine your candidacy based on physical exams, imaging studies, and diagnostic injections.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion
What is Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion?
Minimally invasive spine fusion is a surgical procedure that stabilizes one or more segments of the spine by fusing vertebrae together using small incisions and specialized instruments. Compared to traditional open fusion surgery, minimally invasive techniques reduce muscle disruption, blood loss, and recovery time while still providing spinal stability and pain relief.
Why Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion is Performed
This procedure may be recommended for patients with:
- Degenerative disc disease causing chronic pain
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebrae)
- Spinal instability from trauma, tumors, or arthritis
- Recurrent herniated discs or failed prior spine surgery
- Degenerative disc disease causing chronic pain
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion
- Smaller incisions with less tissue and muscle disruption
- Reduced blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
- Decreased postoperative pain and scarring
- Earlier return to daily activities compared to traditional open fusion
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – General anesthesia is used.
- Small incisions – Typically several 1–2 inch incisions along the affected area.
- Surgical guidance – Fluoroscopy or navigation systems help guide instruments precisely.
- Disc and vertebrae preparation – Damaged disc material is removed, and the vertebrae are prepared for fusion.
- Bone graft and hardware placement – Bone graft (from the patient or donor) and screws, rods, or cages stabilize the spine.
- Closure – Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Recovery After Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion
- Hospital stay – Usually 1–3 days, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
- Pain management – Pain medication, ice/heat therapy, and gentle movement.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged early; lifting, bending, and twisting are restricted initially.
- Physical therapy – Helps restore strength, mobility, and posture.
- Return to normal activity – Light activities within a few weeks; full recovery may take several months.
Risks and Possible Complications
Although minimally invasive fusion reduces risks compared to open surgery, potential complications include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Nonunion (failure of vertebrae to fuse properly)
- Hardware complications (screws, rods, or cages)
- Persistent pain or need for additional surgery
Although minimally invasive fusion reduces risks compared to open surgery, potential complications include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Nonunion (failure of vertebrae to fuse properly)
- Hardware complications (screws, rods, or cages)
- Persistent pain or need for additional surgery
- Infection or bleeding
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Fusion Right for You?
Minimally invasive spine fusion may be a good option if you need spinal stabilization but want less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars than traditional fusion. A spine specialist can determine candidacy based on your condition, imaging studies, and overall health.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to treat certain spine conditions using a tiny camera (endoscope) and specialized instruments. Unlike traditional open spine surgery, endoscopic surgery requires only small incisions, which often results in less pain, quicker recovery, and reduced scarring.
Common Conditions Treated
Endoscopic spine surgery can address a variety of spine issues, including:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Foraminal stenosis (nerve compression at the spinal exit)
- Facet joint pain
- Certain cases of degenerative disc disease
- Herniated or bulging discs
Benefits of Endoscopic Spine Surgery
- Smaller incisions and minimal tissue disruption
- Less postoperative pain and scarring
- Shorter hospital stay or outpatient procedure
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Reduced risk of infection compared to traditional open surgery
What to Expect Before Surgery
- Medical evaluation – Including imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray) to identify the problem area
- Discussion of surgical plan – Surgeon explains the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes
- Preoperative preparation – Blood tests, medication review, and anesthesia evaluation
The Procedure
- The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the endoscope to visualize the spine
- Specialized instruments are used to remove or repair the affected tissue
- Real-time imaging guides precise treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues
Recovery After Surgery
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient, or 1–2 days in the hospital depending on complexity
- Pain management – Medications and ice/heat therapy as needed
- Physical therapy – Gentle exercises to restore strength, mobility, and posture
- Activity restrictions – Avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or high-impact activity until cleared
- Follow-up visits – To monitor healing and spinal stability
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient, or 1–2 days in the hospital depending on complexity
Risks and Considerations
While minimally invasive, endoscopic spine surgery still carries potential risks:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Recurrence of disc herniation or spinal stenosis
- Incomplete symptom relief, requiring further treatment
- Rare complications related to anesthesia
- Infection or bleeding
Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery Right for You?
Endoscopic spine surgery may be an option if:
- You have a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments
- You want a minimally invasive approach with faster recovery
- You are a candidate based on imaging, age, overall health, and surgeon assessment
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
What is Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the pelvis. Dysfunction or instability in this joint can cause chronic lower back, buttock, or leg pain. SI joint fusion is a surgical procedure that stabilizes the joint, reducing abnormal motion and relieving pain. This can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, which result in smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and faster recovery.
Why SI Joint Fusion is Performed
SI joint fusion may be recommended if:
- Chronic lower back or buttock pain originates from the SI joint
- Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections have failed
- Pain interferes with daily activities, work, or sleep
- Joint instability or degeneration is confirmed by imaging and diagnostic tests
- Chronic lower back or buttock pain originates from the SI joint
Benefits of SI Joint Fusion
- Significant reduction in pain from an unstable or arthritic SI joint
- Minimally invasive approach with small incisions and minimal tissue disruption
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery
- Earlier return to daily activities and improved mobility
How the Procedure Works
- Anesthesia – Typically performed under general anesthesia.
- Small incision – A 1–2 inch incision is made over the SI joint.
- Joint preparation – Damaged cartilage is removed to allow fusion.
- Implant placement – Screws or rods are inserted across the SI joint to stabilize and promote fusion.
- Closure – Incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.
- Anesthesia – Typically performed under general anesthesia.
Recovery After SI Joint Fusion
- The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the endoscope to visualize the spine
- Specialized instruments are used to remove or repair the affected tissue
- Real-time imaging guides precise treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues
Recovery After Surgery
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient or 1–2 days depending on procedure complexity.
- Pain management – Medications and gentle activity are used to manage discomfort.
- Activity – Walking is encouraged soon after surgery; lifting, twisting, and high-impact activities are restricted initially.
- Physical therapy – Strengthening and mobility exercises to support recovery.
- Return to normal activity – Many patients resume light activity within a few weeks; full recovery can take several months.
- Hospital stay – Often outpatient or 1–2 days depending on procedure complexity.
Risks and Considerations
While SI joint fusion is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve injury causing numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Nonunion (failure of the joint to fuse properly)
- Persistent pain or incomplete symptom relief
- Implant-related complications (loosening or breakage)
- Infection or bleeding
Is SI Joint Fusion Right for You?
SI joint fusion may be an effective solution if non-surgical treatments have failed and your pain is confirmed to come from the SI joint. A spine or orthopedic specialist can determine your candidacy based on physical exams, imaging studies, and diagnostic injections.