Reduced postoperative discomfort |
Smaller incisions and less muscle disruption lead to significantly less pain after surgery. |
Minimally invasive spine fusion is a leading-edge surgical technique designed to merge vertebrae in the spine with less trauma to the body than traditional open surgery. Unlike more invasive methods, this approach uses smaller incisions, resulting in reduced muscle damage, less pain post-surgery, and a quicker return to daily activities.
It’s a preferred option when conservative treatments haven’t provided relief and conditions are severe enough that spinal stability must be restored, but where disc replacement isn’t suitable due to factors like the specific location of spinal degeneration or patient-specific considerations.
Dr. Rao typically recommends the procedure for conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, or fractures that haven’t responded well to non-surgical treatment methods. It’s particularly beneficial in situations where preserving as much natural spine motion as possible is desired but where disc replacement isn’t viable, for instance, due to the issue’s complexity or the spine’s overall health.
Dr. Rao specializes in minimally invasive spine fusion, employing state-of-the-art techniques to enhance patient outcomes. His approach is defined by a deep understanding of spinal anatomy and pathology and the skilful application of advanced surgical techniques. This includes the use of specialized instruments and guidance technologies that allow for precise treatment with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Patients who undergo minimally invasive spine fusion with Dr. Rao benefit from several key advantages:
Reduced postoperative discomfort |
Smaller incisions and less muscle disruption lead to significantly less pain after surgery. |
Faster Recovery Times |
Patients often experience a quicker return to daily activities and work. |
Less Risk of Complications |
The minimally invasive nature of the procedure results in a lower risk of infection and blood loss. |
Minimal Scarring |
Due to the size of the incisions, scarring is significantly reduced. |
For minimally invasive spinal fusion, you’ll be given general anaesthesia to put you asleep. After he makes one or more small incisions to access your spine, Dr. Rao will gently push away the muscles of your back or abdomen (depending on the plan) with a special tool and then remove the disc between the vertebrae to be fused. He will then weld together two or more of your vertebrae by placing bone or some other material, such as titanium, in the space where the disc was. Over time, this fuses together, stabilizing the spine. The aim is to relieve symptoms while maintaining as much of the spine’s natural movement as possible.
Minimally invasive spinal fusion uses smaller incisions than traditional surgery. Because of this, it may lead to faster recovery times and reduce the chance of certain problems.
Recovery from minimally invasive spine fusion typically involves a shorter hospital stay and a more rapid return to normal activities compared to traditional surgery. Dr. Rao and his team are dedicated to supporting patients through their recovery process, providing comprehensive postoperative care instructions, pain management strategies, and recommendations for physical therapy to ensure the best possible outcome.
Under Dr. Rao’s expert care, patients undergoing minimally invasive spine fusion can expect compassionate, patient-centred care tailored to their unique needs. With a commitment to excellence in minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Rao ensures each patient benefits from a procedure aimed at improving quality of life with minimal discomfort and downtime.