FIX YOUR SPINE WITH MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERIES.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) was developed to treat spine problems, with minimal injury to the muscles and other structures surrounding the spinal cord. It also helps the surgeon to hone in on the exact spot where the problem exists in the spine. 

Advantages of 'MISS':

1. Smaller incisions, less bleeding and shorter stays in the hospital. MISS patients, generally, go home within 2 to 3 days.
2. MISS involves the use of specialised instruments, to access the spine through small incisions, and is effective in most cases.
3. Post-operative pain is less than pain after traditional, open procedures.

MISS fusion and decompression procedures (such as discectomy and laminectomy) are performed with special tools called tubular retractors. During the procedure a small incision is made, and the tubular retractor is inserted through the skin and soft tissues, down to the spinal column. This creates a tunnel to the small area where the problem exists in the spine. The tubular retractor holds the muscles open and is kept in place throughout the procedure. 

The surgeon will access the spine using small instruments that fit through the center of the tubular retractor. Any bone or disk material that is removed, exits through the retractor, and any devices necessary for fusion such as screws or rods are inserted through the retractor. Some surgeries require more than one retractor. In order to see where to place the incision and insert the retractor, the surgeon is guided through fluroscopy. This method displays x-ray images of the patient's spine on a screen throughout the surgery. The surgeon also uses an operating microscope to magnify the view through the retractor.

An operating microscope provides excellent illumination and magnification during minimally invasive spine procedures. At the end of the procedure, the tubular retractor is removed and the muscles return to their original position. This limits the muscle damage that is more commonly seen in open surgeries. Most common Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeries are MIS Lumbar Discectomy - herniated disc and MIS Lumbar Fusion.

To help you regain strength and speed up your recovery, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. Specific exercises will help you become strong and resume daily activities within a few days. If you have had a fusion procedure, it may be several months before the bone is solid, although your comfort level will often improve much faster.

----------------------------------------------------------------