Minimally Invasive
Spine Surgery

What is it and how is it performed?

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What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

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.

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About Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery


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 surgery and many patients are able to return home the same day.

Commonly Used Terms Include:

Laser Spine Surgery

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. 

Endoscopic Spine Surgery

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. 

Make an Appointment with an OrthoNeuro Spine Surgeon Today!

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. 

Spine Care Specialists

If you live with chronic back or neck pain, contact OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio, for state-of-the-art diagnosis and personalized spine care treatment plans to heal your spine, relieve your pain, and help you get back to your regular activities.

Ying H. Chen, DO, FACOS

Neurosurgeon

Paul H. Eichenseer, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

David K. Kim, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Donald J. Rohl, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Larry Todd, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Mark A. White, DO

Neurosurgeon

Daniel P. Pap, MD

Interventional Pain Specialist

Siddharth Shetgeri, DO

Neurosurgeon

Dustin Reynolds, M.D.

Interventional Pain Management Specialist

My experience is always very pleasant from the time I enter the door until I leave, they make me feel comfortable and welcomed.

Paula F.

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