What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a type of surgery on the bones of your spine (backbone). This type of surgery uses smaller incisions than standard surgery. This often causes less harm to nearby muscles and other tissues. It can lead to less pain and faster recovery after surgery.
The standard method of spine surgery is called open or mini-open surgery. This uses longer incisions down the back, your side, or your belly. The muscles and soft tissue around the spine would need to be moved away.
During MISS, the healthcare provider makes one or more smaller incisions. They then insert a device called a tubular retractor. This is a stiff, tube-shaped tool. It creates a tunnel to the problem area of the spine. It gently pushes aside the muscle and soft tissue around the area. The surgeon can then put small tools through the tunnel to work on the spine. The surgeon also uses a special operating microscope, high-resolution cameras, computer-assisted and robotic guidance, and real-time X-rays of the spine.
