Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion

Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion (MIS Lumbar Fusion) is an advanced spine surgery technique used to stabilize the lower back and relieve pressure on spinal nerves through small incisions and specialized surgical tools.

During the procedure, Dr. Tristan Fried fuses two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts and small implants (screws, rods, cages), preventing painful motion at that level.
Because it is performed using tubular retractors, endoscopes, or robotic navigation, there is less muscle disruption, less blood loss, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open fusion surgery.

MIS Lumbar Fusion is recommended when the spine is unstable or severely degenerated, and other treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections have not provided lasting relief.

Common reasons include:

• Spondylolisthesis – when one vertebra slips forward over another
   
• Degenerative disc disease causing severe instability
   
• Spinal stenosis with instability or deformity
   
• Recurrent herniated discs after previous surgeries
   
• Fractures or trauma requiring stabilization
   
• Certain cases of scoliosis or spinal deformity
  
   

• Smaller incisions: Compared to larger open incisions.
   
• Minimal muscle damage: Muscles are gently separated, not cut or stripped away.
   
• Outpatient or short hospital stay: Many patients go home the same day or after one night.
   
• Less blood loss: Reduced trauma means fewer transfusions and faster healing.
   
• Lower infection risk: Smaller incisions mean less exposure and fewer complications.
   
• Faster recovery: Patients typically return to daily activities in weeks, not months.
   
• Smaller scars and improved cosmetic outcomes.
   

Bottom line: MIS Lumbar Fusion achieves the same goals as traditional fusion — pain relief and stability — but with less pain and a quicker return to normal life.

You may be a good candidate if you have:

• Persistent lower back and leg pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatments
   
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by nerve compression
   
• Imaging showing instability, degeneration, or deformity in the lumbar spine
   
• Conditions such as spondylolisthesis, severe arthritis, or spinal stenosis
   
• Good overall health and bone quality to support proper healing and fusion

• Small incisions: Dr. Fried makes a few tiny incisions in the lower back.
   
• Tubular retractors: Specialized tools are used to gently move muscles aside instead of cutting through them.
   
• Precise decompression: Bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or disc material are removed to relieve nerve pressure.
   
• Fusion placement:
   
• A bone graft or cage is placed along the facets/transverse processes or between the vertebrae.
   
• Small screws and rods are inserted to stabilize the area.
   
• Closure: The incisions are closed with minimal stitches or surgical glue.
   

• Less postoperative pain
   
• Shorter recovery time
   
• Lower risk of infection and complications
   
• Outpatient or short-stay surgery
   
• Reduced reliance on narcotic pain medications
   
• Faster return to work and daily activities
   
• Smaller, less noticeable scars
   
• Preservation of surrounding muscles and tissues

• Same-day discharge: Many patients go home within hours of surgery.
   
• Early mobility: Walking is encouraged immediately to promote circulation and healing.
   
• Return to light activity: Desk work or daily tasks are often possible within 2–4 weeks.
   
• Physical therapy: Usually begins 6 weeks after surgery to strengthen core and back muscles.
   
• Fusion timeline: Complete fusion typically develops over 3–6 months.
   
• Full recovery: Most patients return to unrestricted activities at 6 months, depending on the complexity of their surgery and confirmation of fusion
   

Many patients notice significant pain relief within the first few weeks, with gradual improvements over time as fusion occurs.

 

• Stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, as directed by Dr. Fried.
   
• Avoid food or drink for a set time before surgery.
   
• Arrange for transportation home if discharged the same day.
   
• Set up a recovery area at home with essentials within easy reach.
   
• Quit smoking — it negatively impacts bone healing and fusion success.
  
   

Contact Dr. Fried’s office right away if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or signs of infection around the incision
   
• New or worsening leg weakness, numbness, or tingling
   
• Severe back or leg pain not relieved by medication
   
• Sudden bladder or bowel control changes (medical emergency)