If you have a spinal issue that requires surgery, you may want to see if minimally invasive spinal surgery is an option for you. Minimally invasive spinal surgery is a less invasive procedure in which a surgeon enters the area through small incisions to make the necessary repairs. An endoscope is used for this procedure, which is a flexible, long tube with a camera that allows the surgeon to see the spine. This spine surgery option can be used to treat a variety of spinal health issues, including spinal fusions, fractures, spinal tumors, spinal deformities, and any forms of trauma. The following are some things you should know about minimally invasive spinal surgery:

How Is Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery Beneficial?

There are several benefits to minimally invasive spinal surgery. The main benefit is right in the name of the procedure. The procedure is not as invasive as a surgery that requires the surgeon to open the area to go in and perform the surgery. This means you will recover more quickly and have less pain after the surgery. The risk for complications is much lower with this less invasive surgery and you are less likely to develop infections.

Who Should Have Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery?

There are some ways to know if you are a good candidate for minimally invasive spinal surgery. Above all, you must have a consultation with a spinal surgeon who primarily performs these types of less invasive surgeries. When you go for a consultation, the surgeon will ask a series of questions to help decide if you should move forward with the procedure. If you have constant pain that travels from your neck to the lower part of your body, you might be a good candidate. If the pain moves from your lower back into the lower half of your body, you also may be a good candidate for this procedure. Those who have had traditional spinal surgery and are still having pain or persistent problems may also benefit from minimally invasive spinal surgery. Herniated discs and spinal stenosis are common issues that are treatable with this procedure. Elderly patients are great candidates for this surgery if their condition allows.

Who Should Not Have Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery?

Although many people can benefit from this procedure, there are some who cannot. Certain spinal conditions are not responsive to minimally invasive spinal surgery. Those with certain types of tumors or growths located in a specific area may not be treatable with a less invasive procedure. Certain infections of the spine are also not treatable with minimally invasive spinal surgery.

For more information, contact a local medical center, such as The Anand Spine Group.