Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
If other treatments are ineffective, patients with a slipped or damaged disc, or a pinched nerve, may require surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve or repair the damaged disc. Fortunately, some procedures for these conditions can be performed using minimally invasive techniques. These techniques involve smaller incisions and the use of specialised surgical instruments and endoscopes.
Because the incisions are smaller, these procedures typically cause less tissue damage and reduce the risk of complications such as blood loss, pain, and scarring. Additional benefits include shorter operating times, reduced hospital stays, and faster recovery.
Recovery
Recovery varies between patients and procedures. As a general guide, recovery may include the following:
- One to three days in hospital, or up to seven days for more complex procedures
- No heavy lifting for the first few weeks, followed by gradually increasing lifting activities as advised
- Time off work to allow for recovery
- Returning to work on restricted duties for a period of time
- No driving for a period of time, as advised by your surgeon
- No swimming for 4 to 6 weeks
- Physiotherapy
- Pain medication as required
- Rehabilitation may occasionally be required
- A back brace may be required for a small number of conditions
- Follow-up appointments with an Occupational Therapist may be necessary
