The goal of any spinal treatment is to successfully correct the problem in the least invasive way possible. This is why conservative care in the form of physical therapy, weight loss and stretching techniques are oftentimes the first treatments pursued. However, if surgery becomes an eventuality, a surgeon will still want to correct the issue in the least invasive way possible.
If you’re dealing with spinal stenosis or a herniated disc, that treatment may come in the form of a minimally invasive microdiscectomy procedure. Below, we explore what a minimally invasive microdiscectomy entails, and how Dr. Sinicropi and help you find back pain relief with the help of the operation.
How Is A Microdiscectomy Performed?
A laparoscopic or minimally invasive procedure is considered the gold standard for a number of reasons, with the obvious being that the patient experiences less trauma to the surgery site. During a traditional discectomy operation, a large incision is made so that the surgeon can view the disc in question while performing the operation. With a minimally invasive procedure, an incision of one inch or smaller is made, through which a series of tubes and specialized tools are inserted in order to access the disc. A small camera is attached to one of these tubes, which relays a live video feed to a monitor in the room, allowing the doctor to visualize the site without needing to create a large opening on the spine.
Once everything is in place, the surgeon will use the specialized equipment to excise part of the problemed area. They can shave off bone or remove damaged disc portions in order to make room for spinal nerves that are currently being decompressed by bone spurs, discs or a narrowing foraminal space. After the damaged bone has been removed and the surgical site stabilized, the tools are removed and the incision site is closed. Oftentimes a minimally invasive microdiscectomy procedure can be completed in about an hour, and the surgery has a high track record of success.
Benefits Of Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy For Back Pain
As we mentioned above, there is less trauma to the spinal tissues when a minimally invasive technique is performed, but minimizing trauma is only one of the many benefits of this type of corrective procedure. Other benefits associated with the laparoscopic decompression include:
- Less scar tissue
- Reduced likelihood of bleeding
- Faster recovery time
- Decreased pain during recovery
- Shorter recovery period/Hospital stays
- Decreased medical costs
- Reduced risk of post-op infection
- Reduced need for opioids and painkillers
And while a minimally invasive decompression procedure can get you on the right path to recovery, surgery alone won’t solve your back issue. Even if you pursue minimally invasive surgery, you’re still going to need to put in weeks of effort during your rehabilitation period. This will involve gradual increases to a physical therapy program until you are strong enough to return to normal physical activities. It’s also imperative that you mind your activity restrictions during this period of vulnerability. Don’t drive, bend, twist, lift or return to work until you have been cleared by your surgeon.
Many patients can make a full recovery in 6-8 weeks, but it depends on the root cause for your procedure and which activities you’re hoping to do again upon your recovery. For more information about the procedure, or to talk to a specialist about the spine discomfort you’re experiencing, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and his team today at (651) 430-3800.
