Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

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Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) involves using specialized tools and techniques to perform spine surgery through smaller incisions, often with the aid of imaging guidance. This approach aims to minimize tissue damage, reduce blood loss, and potentially shorten recovery time compared to traditional open spine surgery. Dr. Shay Bess may recommend MISS for his patients when addressing conditions like herniated discs, bone spurs, spinal stenosis and certain types of spinal tumors, particularly when non-surgical treatments have been unsuccessful. Minimally invasive surgery is not suitable for all of Dr. Shay Bess' patients or all spinal conditions.   Dr. Shay Bess will determine if MISS is deemed suitable based on each individual patient's health, condition and evaluation.

Dr. Shay Bess generally considers recommending and using the MISS approach:

 *when non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections have not provided relief for chronic back or neck pain

*when the cause of symptoms can be pinpointed

* when the condition is amenable to a minimally invasive approach

*and when the patient is a suitable candidate. 

Some of the most common conditions that Dr. Shay Bess treats with MISS are degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal tumors, spinal fractures, and spondylolisthesis.  

There are many benefits to minimally invasive spine surgery.  Therefore, when it's appropriate for a patient and his or her condition, Dr. Shay Bess may recommend MISS for treatment.  Some of the benefits of MISS include smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, lower infection risk, less postoperative pain, and a faster recovery and return to activity.