Assistance
Search

Minimal Invasive Spine Surgery

This page will provide you with information about minimal invasive surgery. For further details, please speak to your consultant.

What is Minimal Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a form of keyhole surgery whereby surgeons are able to diagnose and treat problems originating in the back, neck and shoulders by gaining access to the spine. Incisions made into the skin are very small, making MISS much less invasive than traditional procedures.

MISS is used to carry out a number of procedures, including repair of herniated discs, spinal fusions, decompression of spinal tumours, and repairs of vertebral compression fractures.

What are the benefits of surgery?

  • More accurate diagnosis
  • More precise treatment
  • Reduced scarring due to smaller incisions
  • Less bleeding
  • Reduced pain following the operation
  • Reduced risk of infection
  • Shorter hospital stay (patients normally discharged within 2 to 3 days of the procedure)

What will happen during the procedure?

For the procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions (less than 2cm) into the skin. They will then pass small, specialised instruments and a camera (endoscope or fluoroscope) through the incisions in order to operate. The camera takes images of the affected area, which will be displayed on a monitor and used to guide the surgeons through the operation. The exact nature of procedure will depend on your individual condition, which will be determined through an initial consultation with your doctor.

Risks and complications

Any risks or complications will be discussed in advance of your treatment with your expert consultant.

 

This page is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.