If you suffer from a spinal condition that has not responded to traditional treatment methods, you may be a good candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery. This surgery is less invasive than traditional open spine surgery, and it can often be performed on an outpatient basis. Take a look at some of the conditions that can be treated with minimally invasive spine surgery to decide if it's right for you.

Compression Fractures

Compression fractures occur when the vertebrae in the spine collapse due to pressure or trauma. As a result, your spine may begin to compress. This condition can lead to pain, difficulty moving, and deformity. The most common cause of compression fractures is osteoporosis, which causes the bones to become weak and porous. However, compression fractures can also be caused by accidents or injuries. Depending on the severity of your fracture, your surgeon may insert screws into the vertebrae to stabilize your spine. They could also inject bone cement into the vertebrae to repair the damage. In some cases, the surgeon may remove a portion of the vertebrae to relieve pressure on your spinal cord.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is characterized by the deterioration of one or more discs in the spine. The discs in the spine are cushions that sit between the vertebrae and allow for smooth movement of the spine. Over time, these discs can become worn down, leading to pain and stiffness. In some cases, degenerative disc disease can also lead to nerve compression, which can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness. Minimally invasive spine surgery can often treat degenerative disc disease. Keep in mind that the goal is to relieve pain by decompressing the nerves and stabilizing the spine. The surgeon can make a small incision in the back and insert a microscope into the area. They can remove the ruptured disc and relieve the pressure on your spinal cord or nerves.

Spinal Infections

Spinal infections can cause pain, neurological problems, and even paralysis. Treatment may involve long courses of antibiotics, which can have side effects, or require surgery to remove the infected tissue. However, standard surgical approaches to treating spinal infections carry a risk of complications, such as damage to the nerves or blood vessels. Minimally invasive spine surgery is a much less invasive alternative that can be just as effective in treating spinal infections. The surgeon makes small incisions and uses special instruments to access the affected area. This procedure results in less damage to healthy tissue and a quicker recovery time.

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