Standing Tall: How Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Can Get You Back to Living Fully
If you, or someone you love, has ever suffered from back pain, you know how debilitating it can be. Chronic back pain is not something that is here one day and gone the next. It is a constant setback that takes a physical, emotional, and mental toll on a person, significantly hindering daily activities such as work and enjoying time with family.
While surgery is often not the first choice, when it comes to chronic back pain, it’s sometimes the only thing that will result in a permanent fix. Traditional spine surgery used to mean long recoveries with hospital stays and body casts, but thanks to advancements in medical technology, that’s not the case.
Here at St. Cloud Surgical Center, we have a team of surgeons who have pioneered minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). This procedure offers effective relief with fewer drawbacks than traditional open surgeries and exists to help you return to a pain-free life!
UNDERSTANDING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY (MISS)
Minimally invasive spine surgery is becoming a top choice for spine surgery because it involves performing spinal procedures through small incisions, utilizing specialized instruments and imaging techniques. This approach contrasts with traditional open surgery, which requires larger incisions and can result in more significant muscle and tissue disruption.
Minimally invasive spine surgery boasts many benefits, including:
- Faster Recovery Times
- Better Cosmetic Results
- Less Blood Loss
- Reduced Risk of Infection
- Reduced Risk of Postoperative Pain
- Less Time for Rehab
To learn more about the benefits and technological advancements made in the last 30 years regarding minimally invasive spine surgery, refer to this video from our very own Dr. Joel Shobe.
BECOMING A CANDIDATE FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY (MISS)
While minimally invasive spine surgery offers numerous benefits, it’s not the right fit for all patients suffering from back pain. Ideal candidates typically have conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or certain deformities that haven’t responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication. A thorough evaluation by a spine specialist at St. Cloud Surgical Center will determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
Common conditions of MISS candidates include:
- Herniated Discs
- Spinal Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Scoliosis
- Spinal Instability
- Spinal Tumors
Whatever the reason for your pain, our highly skilled surgeons will find the cause and provide the best course of action. If surgery becomes your best option, the expertise and ongoing training of surgeons at our center will provide you with the most advanced surgical care available today.
WHAT TO EXPECT: FROM SURGERY PREP TO RECOVERY
If you’re considering minimally invasive spine surgery, knowing what to expect at each stage can bring peace of mind. While any surgery can feel intimidating, the process is designed with your comfort and recovery in mind. From preparation to recovery, here’s how the experience typically unfolds:
- Preoperative Preparation: Prior to surgery, your surgeon and care team will discuss the plan and surgery process. Our team will also provide many touchpoints, such as checklists, emails, and phone calls, to assure you that your safety is our top priority!
- During the Surgery: Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions and uses specialized instruments to access the spine. Real-time imaging guides the procedure, ensuring precision.
- Postoperative Care: After the surgery, you’ll be monitored as you wake from anesthesia. Your care team will provide pain management strategies to implement, and you’ll receive instructions for at-home care and a plan for rehabilitation.
Everyone’s experience and pace will be different when it comes to recovery. The process is highly dependent on the individual and the specific procedure performed. When it comes to minimally invasive spine surgeries, this is what most patients can expect:
- Early Mobilization: Patients are encouraged to walk and engage in light activities soon after surgery to promote healing.
- Physical Therapy: A tailored rehabilitation program may be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Living with chronic back pain doesn’t have to be your reality. Minimally invasive spine surgery offers a path to relief with fewer risks and a quicker recovery. If you’re considering this option, consult with the experts at St. Cloud Surgical Center to determine the best course of action for your spinal health.
Our top-rated ambulatory surgery center values a patient-centric approach focusing on your comfort, safety, and swift return to daily life. When patients choose St. Cloud Surgical Center for their care, they can rest easy knowing our team of experienced spine specialists is dedicated to successful outcomes and personalized care.