Frequently Asked Questions

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We use advanced tools like small cameras, microscopes, and special surgical instruments to perform minimally invasive spine surgery.
While lasers can be used in some procedures, the real benefit comes from the small incisions and precise techniques, not just the laser itself.

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) uses smaller incisions and causes less damage to muscles and tissues compared to open surgery.
Benefits often include:

• Smaller scars
   
• Less blood loss
   
• Shorter hospital stay
   
• Faster return to normal activities
   
• Less pain after surgery
   

Both MIS and open surgery aim for the same goals: relieving nerve pressure, stabilizing the spine, and improving your quality of life.

Surgery is usually considered after non-surgical treatments haven’t worked, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
You should also consider surgery sooner if you experience:

• Worsening weakness or numbness in your arms or legs
   
• Difficulty walking or balancing
   
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (this is an emergency — call your doctor right away)
   

Many patients are excellent candidates for MIS surgery, including those with:

• Herniated discs
   
• Pinched nerves (sciatica)
   
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
   
• Certain cases of spinal instability or slipped vertebrae (spondylolisthesis)
   

Some conditions like large spinal deformities, tumors, or infections may still require open surgery.
Your surgeon will review your MRI, X-rays, and medical history to decide what’s best for you.

Each type of imaging gives your surgeon a different view of your spine:

• MRI: Shows nerves, discs, and soft tissues clearly.
   
• CT Scan: Provides detailed images of bones and joints.
   
• X-rays: Help check alignment and stability, and are used during surgery for guidance.
   

These images help your surgical team plan the safest, most effective procedure.

It depends on the type of surgery and your job duties:

• Small procedures like a minimally invasive discectomy: often 1–2 weeks.
   
• Spinal fusions or larger surgeries: usually 1–4 weeks or longer.
   
• Physically demanding jobs: may require 8–12+ weeks before full return.
   

Your surgeon will give you a personalized timeline based on your progress.

Most minimally invasive procedures do not require a brace.
If a brace is needed, your surgeon will explain exactly how long to wear it.

Most spinal implants are made from titanium, which usually does not set off standard airport alarms.
If you ever have an issue, you can simply explain that you have surgical hardware — no special card or note is required.

Most patients notice little to no change in everyday flexibility after a fusion.
The rest of your spine will continue to move normally, and most patients are able to return to activities like walking, swimming, and cycling without restriction.

In most cases, surgery can be scheduled within 1–3 weeks, depending on:

• Your personal schedule

• Insurance approval
   
• Facility availability
   
• Any pre-op testing or medical clearance needed

Yes, for the first few days, you should have someone help you with:

• Meal preparation
   
• Household chores
   
• Transportation to follow-up appointments
   

As you recover, you’ll regain independence quickly — most patients return to light activities within the first couple of weeks.

• Walk frequently — short, gentle walks several times a day.
   
• Avoid bending, lifting, or twisting until cleared by your surgeon.
   
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and hydration to promote healing.
   
• Quit smoking or using nicotine, as it slows bone and tissue healing.
   
• Follow your physical therapy plan when it’s introduced.

The goal of surgery is to relieve nerve pressure and stabilize the spine, which often improves leg or arm symptoms quickly.
Some back stiffness or soreness may remain, especially if there is long-standing arthritis or wear-and-tear.
Most patients notice steady improvement as they heal.

Once you are off all narcotics and muscle relaxers and can safely turn your head and move your feet — usually within 1–2 weeks for smaller procedures.

Call your surgeon’s office immediately if you experience:

• Fever higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C)
   
• Worsening redness, swelling, or drainage at your incision site
   
• Sudden new leg weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control
   
• Severe pain that does not improve with medication
   

These may be signs of infection or other complications that need urgent attention.