LumbarMIS

What types of minimally invasive lumbar surgeries are available?

Dr. Courtney offers two minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery (lumbar MIS) options:

Minimally invasive lumbar microdecompression

A microdecompression surgery is performed to remove overgrown bone and soft tissue that cause irritation to the lumbar (lower back) spine or nerves. When performed on a lumbar disc, the procedure is called a microdiscectomy. This procedure is performed to relieve pain and discomfort associated with:

• Arthritis
• Spinal stenosis
• Disc herniation

If you’ve experienced leg pain, numbness, or tingling, lower back pain, or disability due to these conditions and conservative measures haven’t helped, microdecompression might be your solution.

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)

A TLIF procedure is performed when a disc in the lumbar spine is damaged and needs to be replaced. Dr. Courtney uses a surgical cage and bone graft to replace the damaged disc and applies a surgical plate to the vertebrae above and below the cage for stability.

You could benefit from a TLIF if you have any of the following conditions:

• Herniated disc
• Degenerative disc disease
• Lumbar radiculopathy

In many cases, patients experience immediate relief from their leg pain, numbness, and tingling following a TLIF.

What are the benefits of a minimally invasive lumbar surgery?

Compared with traditional open surgery, lumbar MIS involves a small incision — often just a couple of inches — in your back rather than a large incision covering your spine. Dr. Courtney uses a series of retractors to carefully pull your skin and muscle away from the surgical site without damaging the surrounding tissues.

A smaller incision and the use of retractors allow faster, easier recovery after surgery and reduces your risk of infection. It can also decrease your need for pain medication following surgery. Dr. Courtney has extensive training in minimally invasive surgeries and has developed surgical tools specifically for the procedure to allow for the best possible results.

Am I a candidate for minimally invasive lumbar surgery?

To find out if a lumbar MIS is right for you, Dr. Courtney begins with a consultation and orthopedic exam. He orders X-rays and an MRI of your lumbar spine to determine the extent of damage to your spine.

Based on his findings, Dr. Courtney discusses your treatment options and works with you to find the most effective approaches to end your pain.

Set up a consultation and exam with Dr. Courtney now by calling Advanced Spine Center or using the online scheduling tool.