Hybrid lumbar spine surgery is an emerging surgical intervention used to treat patients with a combination of mechanical and inflammatory conditions in their lower back. It combines facets of different surgical procedures into one procedure…
Minimally invasive spine surgery has revolutionized surgical healthcare. What once required long recovery times, extensive surgical openings, and more pain is now the opposite. Minimally invasive spine surgery treats spinal disorders more efficiently and effectively, allowing patients to endure the least amount of pain. With minimally invasive procedures, patients can expect improved results and much-needed pain relief.
The following information discusses the main types of minimally invasive spine surgeries, not only to help you fully understand potential treatment options but also to help you consciously prepare for your personal healing journey.
Discectomy
A discectomy is performed using an endoscope, a small digital camera that locates the affected area in the spine. Depending on the nature of the damage, the goal of the procedure may change. For example, a microdiscectomy is used to remove a disc that’s pressing against spinal nerves, whereas patients with herniated or bulging discs would typically undergo what’s called a percutaneous discectomy. Both procedures are relatively simple, starting with light sedation or anesthesia. A tiny incision is then made, and the disc material is pulled out carefully through a painless laser procedure.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement surgery is performed using high-caliber technology to replace herniated, damaged, or painful discs in the spine’s cervical or lumbar region. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, an artificial disc replacement removes the damaged disc and inserts an artificial disc, which is designed to mimic the natural curvature of the spine.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a procedure in which two or more vertebrae in the lumbar portion of the spine are fused together. Your surgeon may proceed using alternative approaches to access the appropriate vertebrae. For example, axial fusion targets vertebrae in the tailbone through the side of the body. With other types of fusion, your surgeon may make an incision in your lower back through the front or back. Once the incision is made, the bones are combined using a graft collected from surrounding bone structures, or in some instances, using a synthetically made graft.
Foraminotomy
A foraminotomy is a spine surgery that is used to treat neuroforaminal stenosis, a condition where nerve roots that exit the spinal column are narrowed and compressed. Essentially, the procedure is used to widen the passageway by removing excess material from the neuroforamina. During this procedure, your surgeon will start with an incision over the impacted area. Once in, your surgeon will attempt to clear any material blocking the opening. Following the treatment, patients can expect to feel immediate relief.
Coccygectomy
A coccygectomy is a surgical procedure used to address coccyx pain, also known as pain in the tailbone. Often when the tailbone is broken or damaged, it never thoroughly heals. But what many people don’t know is that you don’t actually need a tailbone; therefore, a coccygectomy can be performed to remove it. The purpose of a coccygectomy is to fix your problem and alleviate your pain permanently.
Minimally Invasive Surgeries by Top Florida Spine Specialists
The best step you can take toward finding a solution to your pain is to speak to a world-class healthcare provider who specializes in treating spinal disorders. Trust the esteemed Florida spine specialists at Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery to deliver high-quality, comprehensive medical care close to home. Our multidisciplinary surgical team consists of board-certified surgeons and various other medical professionals, all with one common goal: to provide you with exceptional care.
At Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery, we strive to help our Florida patients heal faster so they can get back to their lives. Using our state-of-the-art technologies, we’re able to do just that. No matter what procedure you need, we’ll ensure you’re comfortable and confident knowing you’re in a safe environment and capable hands. Call (855) 853-6542 or complete a contact form today for a consultation about our services.