Minimally invasive is a broad term that describes surgery performed through small incisions. This type of surgical approach helps reduce trauma to healthy tissue (that might otherwise occur during open surgery) through the use of special instruments and innovative surgical techniques. Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) procedures and techniques are commonly used to correct disc herniation, decompress nerve roots, stabilize vertebral compression fractures and treat other spine disorders.

MISS Procedure

The spine surgeon uses microscopes, special glasses with magnification built into the lenses, cameras and/or imaging equipment to view the surgical field through one or more narrow tubes.  The incision(s) only needs to be large enough to pass a tube through.  A tube gently separates and moves aside muscle and other soft tissue, reducing the amount of surgical trauma.

The surgical procedure is performed through the tube(s), which are designed and sized to allow the passage of instruments, devices and implants to the operative site. After the procedure, the tubes are removed, and soft structures are moved back into place. The incision is closed and dressed with a small bandage.

Potential Advantages of MISS

• The surgery takes less time 
• Patient's time under general anesthesia is reduced
• Decreased blood loss
• One or more small incisions; less scarring
• Decreased post-operative pain
• Many procedures are performed on an outpatient basis
• Time spent in the hospital is less; patients go home sooner
• Faster recovery, healing and return to daily activities

Potential Disadvantages

• Availability: Not all hospitals have the specialized equipment necessary to perform minimally invasive spine procedures.  Imaging equipment and neural (nerve) monitoring machines are expensive.
• Piedmont Spine Center is a leader in the field of minimally invasive surgery and maintains surgical suites fully equipped with the latest technologies to facilitate MISS procedures. In addition, groundbreaking techniques such as keyhole heart surgery and robotically-assisted endoscopic surgery were pioneered by Piedmont physicians.
• Training: Special instruments, newer surgical techniques, devices, and implants require extensive surgeon training.  Training opportunities may be limited.  Patients may have difficulty finding a surgeon trained and experienced in certain MISS procedures. As leaders in the field of spine surgery, Piedmont Spine Center routinely conducts physician training seminars to ensure the highest level of care for our patients. Our physicians teach advanced surgical techniques, serve as visiting professors here and abroad, as well as publish books and peer-reviewed papers.
• Reimbursement: Some newer minimally invasive technologies are not reimbursed by Medicare or insurance.  This is especially true when minimally invasive surgery is more expensive than a traditional open procedure. If you are a patient considering MISS at Piedmont Spine Center, please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage. If you are unable to verify whether or not a procedure is covered, our staff may be able to assist you.

We Can Help You Make Informed Decisions

Spine surgery is an important decision.  While the final decision is yours, the benefits, potential risks and complications require careful consideration.  We look forward to answering your questions and helping you to resolve your concerns about any treatment offered by Piedmont Spine Center.