Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Fundamentals
Minimally invasive spine surgery is an endoscopic procedure that uses specialized video cameras and instruments that are passed through small incisions (less than 2 cm) in the back, chest or abdomen to access the spine and perform the needed surgery.
Endoscopic techniques have been used for several decades, but for diagnostic purposes only. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, endoscopic techniques were advanced so that both a diagnosis could be made and the disease could be treated. These same endoscopic techniques used in other surgical disciplines have now been advanced to the treatment of spine disorders.