Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MIS)
- A surgical approach that accesses the spine through small incisions using tubular retractors, specialized instruments, and an operating microscope
- Muscles are gently spread apart rather than cut away from the bone, preserving the normal anatomy of the back
- Can be used for many common procedures, including discectomy, decompression, and certain fusions
- Benefits include less blood loss, less postoperative pain, lower infection risk, and a shorter hospital stay
- Most patients return to daily activities faster than with traditional open surgery
- Not every condition is suited to a minimally invasive approach — the choice depends on the specific problem and is made on a case-by-case basis
