

Ying H. Chen, DO, FACOS
Neurosurgeon
Traditionally, spine surgery required a long 6-8 inch incision and a large amount of muscle dissection to reach the spine which led to prolonged recovery and resulted in significant scarring.
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses small incisions (about 1-2 inches) to access damaged spinal discs or vertebrae without the need for large amounts of muscle dissection or trauma to the structures surrounding the spine.
Once the incisions are made, real-time X-rays (known as fluoroscopy) and small surgical instruments are used to repair damaged spinal discs or vertebrae.
Not only are the incisions far smaller, but the procedures are much shorter and much less invasive.
In fact, this procedure can be performed as an outpatient spine surgery and many patients are able to return home the same day.
Essentially, the term “laser spine” refers to a minimally invasive spine surgical procedure. This term has become very common over time.
Oftentimes, there exists a misconception that an actual “laser” is used in these procedures, which there is not. Laser spine surgery is a form of surgery that uses small incisions and minimally invasive techniques.
This type of spine surgery is performed using a thin, telescope-like instrument called an endoscope. The endoscope is connected to a tiny video camera and is inserted through small incisions to give surgeons an inside view of the patient’s body.
In addition, small surgical instruments can be inserted through the small incisions to perform the surgery.
If you have been considering a spine surgical procedure, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Specialists at one of our 7 convenient locations throughout Greater Columbus.
We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of spinal procedure is best for you.
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“I recently had surgery on my lower back. I had heard that such surgery would result in pain and cause me difficulties in doing ordinary daily tasks but, I experienced no pain and was able to do normal activities at home and at church. Also, being a bee keeper, I was able to work the hives and extract the honey from most of the hives”
James B.
Patient