Less than a decade ago, the typical spine surgery required a one-week hospitalization and one year to resume normal activities. Plus, the patient was left the permanent souvenir of a large scar.

Now, minimally invasive spine surgeries have shortened hospital stays to a few days or even less. And most patients can return to daily activities within a few months, with almost no scarring.

Minimally invasive surgery is also called “keyhole” or endoscopic surgery due to the use of an endoscope or other visual tool that allow the surgeon to look inside a patient without cutting a large incision, as in conventional “open” spine surgery.

To do this, the surgeon relies on specialized techniques and equipment – miniature cameras with microscopes, tiny fiber-optic flashlights and fluoroscopic monitors, which use three-dimensional x-rays. The combination allows the surgeon to operate through a tiny, half-inch incision.

The surgery is just as effective as traditional spine surgery, but with far less post-operative pain and complications, and a considerably shorter recovery time. Perhaps the key advantage is that the neurosurgeon avoids cutting through muscle. Which means you can get back to the life you had in a fraction of the usual time.

At Northern Rockies Neurosurgeons, we continue to promote the latest advancements and use minimally invasive endoscope technology for a limited number of spine procedures. It is important to note that not all patients are good candidates. Our trained physicians can help decide what is the best option for you.

For more information on procedures, our neurosurgical staff, or scheduling a consultation, call toll-free: 1-866-822-1530.