Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Los Angeles
Spinal conditions can be some of the most debilitating health issues patients may face. Even seemingly minor issues can dampen quality of life, mobility, and comfort. Traditional procedures involved invasive techniques that carried more risk. As a leading spine surgeon in the US, Dr. Yashar is proud to offer patients minimally invasive spine surgery for a range of conditions.
What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) allows patients to have a crucial procedure with reduced risks while still delivering effective medical care. The procedure addresses conditions related to the spine, or the bones that form your backbone. It involves smaller incisions, resulting in less damage to the surrounding tissues and muscles.
Key Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Less post-operative pain
- Shorter and milder recovery
- Notable improvement in symptoms
- Reduced operative risk
What Is a MISS Procedure Like?
- Anesthesia: We administer either spinal, local, or general anesthesia. The type will depend on your case details and health requirements. Generally, we prefer awake procedures because they place less strain on the body. In each case, you will not experience any pain during the procedure itself.
- Incisions: Dr. Yashar will make incisions as small as 2 cm.
- Tubular Retractor: Dr. Yashar inserts this tube-shaped device into the incision. It gently moves the muscles and tissues aside to allow access to the problem area. All surgical tools are used through this tunnel to avoid tissue damage.
- Assisted Elements: Dr. Yashar uses every option of technological aid available to enhance precision. This can include real-time X-rays, hi-res cameras, and advanced imaging.
- Spinal Fixes: This procedure can involve discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion. Dr. Yashar completes each surgical step within this small area to address the targeted problems.
What Conditions Can Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Address?
- Herniated disk
- Narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
- Spinal deformities such as scoliosis
- Spinal instability
- A slipped vertebra (spondylolisthesis)
- Lower vertebra defects (e.g., spondylolysis or pars defect)
- Fractured vertebra
- Spinal tumors
- Spinal infections
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for Me?
Symptoms such as chronic back pain and loss of mobility can point to medical issues with the spine. However, not all patients will need surgical intervention. While MISS is safer than invasive alternatives, Dr. Yashar typically reserves it for when nonsurgical interventions have failed.
He consults extensively with each patient before suggesting surgery. During this consultation, you will learn about the procedure, including its benefits, risks, and limitations. We will need to pinpoint the exact area that causes your symptoms. Based on your condition and medical history, we may then recommend moving forward with surgery.
What Is the Recovery Like?
MISS typically will be an outpatient procedure. This means you can return home the same day in some cases. However, the amount of time to remain at the hospital can vary. While most patients can return home within 24 hours, others may need a brief stay. Most of the time, Dr. Yasha can inform patients ahead of time what stay to expect. So you can plan accordingly.
The recovery period can last from a couple of weeks to months. The duration will depend on:
- The condition treated
- The procedure complexity
- Individual healing rate
- Adherence to post-op instructions
Recovery details can vary, but some elements include:
- Pain Management: Pain levels vary but can be managed with proper medication.
- Activity Restriction: Avoiding physical activity will be crucial for letting the surgical sites heal.
- Physical Therapy: Not all cases will require physical therapy. However, it can play a central role in regaining mobility and comfort.
- Follow-up Appointments: These visits allow Dr. Yashar to track your recovery and update any post-op instructions.
- Time Off Work: Patients usually can return to (nonphysical) jobs within a month.
How to Choose Your Spin Surgeon
- Be board certified in spine surgery
- Have a track record of successful procedures
- Be involved in their field (updated on the latest techniques)
