What are some types of minimally invasive spine surgery?
There are several types of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) techniques used to treat various spinal conditions while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues. Here are some common MISS procedures:
1. Endoscopic Spine Surgery:
- This technique uses a small camera (endoscope) inserted through a tiny incision to visualize the surgical site. Instruments are then introduced to perform the procedure, such as removing herniated discs or repairing tissue.
2. Microdiscectomy:
- Microdiscectomy involves removing a portion of the herniated disc material that is causing nerve root compression. It is performed through a small incision using specialized microsurgical instruments.
3. Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD):
- PLDD utilizes a laser to shrink or vaporize the herniated disc material, creating more space for the nerve roots. It is done through a small incision and requires minimal tissue disruption.
4. Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy (TED):
- TED combines the use of an endoscope with a small incision to access the herniated disc and relieve nerve root compression.
5. Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion (MIS TLIF):
- MIS TLIF is a technique for spinal fusion that involves placing bone graft and/or an intervertebral device between two vertebrae through a small incision, promoting stability and reducing pain.
6. Percutaneous Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty:
- These procedures involve injecting bone cement into fractured or collapsed vertebrae to strengthen and stabilize the spine. They are commonly used to treat conditions like vertebral compression fractures.
7. Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD):
- MILD is a technique that combines decompression of the spinal cord or nerve roots with the use of minimally invasive instruments and small incisions.
8. Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Correction:
- Some scoliosis cases can be addressed with minimally invasive techniques that involve the insertion of rods and screws to straighten the spine.
9. Percutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS):
- SCS involves implanting a device that delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord to provide pain relief for chronic conditions. It can be performed using minimally invasive techniques.
10. Balloon Kyphoplasty:
- This technique uses a balloon to create space within the collapsed vertebrae, which is then filled with bone cement to restore height and stability.
These are just a few examples of minimally invasive spine surgery techniques. The specific procedure chosen depends on the patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise. MISS techniques aim to reduce pain, minimize tissue damage, and facilitate faster recovery compared to traditional open surgeries.