Update on minimally invasive spinal fusion

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http://www.spine-health.com/topics/surg/miniupdate/miniupdate01.html

.... At the time of this article, minimally invasive spine fusion technology

is still in the early stages of development. This type of procedure uses a

needle, which is inserted through small incisions in the back, and

radiographic magnified images of the spine are projected onto television

screens in the operating room. Narrow surgical instruments are then inserted

into the small (1 to 1 1Ž2 cm) incisions to complete the operation.

.... Some surgeons have anecdotal evidence from their own practice indicating

that patients have better outcomes with using a minimally invasive spine

surgery system, and other surgeons have anecdotal evidence from their

practice that patients have better outcomes with techniques associated with

traditional (open) approaches to spine surgery.

.... Use of a minimally invasive spine surgery system is best suited for

patients with degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis. The technique

does not allow the surgeon to do a central decompression. Foraminal

decompression can be achieved by interbody distraction and grafting. If if

there is any central stenosis an open incision still needs to be made. Due

to the limited visualization at the time of surgery, it is a difficult and

possibly dangerous technique to use in patients with a severe deformity.