Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

MISS is the latest advanced technology available to perform spinal surgeries through small, less than one inch long, incisions. It involves the use of special surgical instruments, devices and advanced imaging techniques to visualise and perform the surgery through such small incisions. MISS is aimed at minimising damage to the muscles and surrounding structures. MISS possesses numerous benefits over the traditional spine surgery which include:

• Small surgery scars
• Reduced risk of infections
• Less blood loss during the surgery
• Less post-operative pain
• Quicker recovery
• Shorter hospital stays
• Quicker return to work and normal activities

Procedure

Minimally invasive spine surgery is done through small incisions. Segmental tubular retractors and dilators are then inserted through these small incisions to retract muscles and provide access to the spine by creating a working channel for the surgery. This minimises the damage to the muscles and soft tissues and decreases the blood loss during the surgery. An endoscope is inserted through one of the incisions to provide images of the operation field on the monitor in the operation room. The surgery is done with special surgical instruments passed through the working channel. Sometimes, surgical microscopes may also be used to magnify the visual field. The tissues fall back in place, as the various instruments are withdrawn. The incision is then closed and dressed.

Risk and Complications

The risks and complications of the surgery may include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, or spinal cord injury. Complications due to general anaesthesia may also occur.