A micro back fusion procedure allows some patients to experience the benefits of neural decompression and spinal stabilization without many of the drawbacks associated with a traditional spinal fusion surgery. This article will explore some of the downsides to undergoing a traditional spinal fusion, and explain how a micro back fusion procedure can eliminate many of these drawbacks.

Traditional Spinal Fusion

Traditional spinal fusion is performed by way of an open neck or back surgery. This essentially means that a surgeon has made a large incision in a patient’s neck or back and has dissected musculature and other soft tissues in order to gain access to the spine. Once the surgeon has access to a deteriorated intervertebral disc that can no longer properly support adjacent vertebrae intervertebral disc, he or she removes the disc in its entirety. An intervertebral cage is then inserted in the empty space and is attached to the surrounding vertebrae with surgical hardware. Bone graft material is inserted into the intervertebral cage with hopes that it will eventually fuse with the adjacent vertebrae.

Due to the invasiveness of these operations, and because they require the dissection of musculature, they can require a significant amount of recovery time. Patients are often required to stay in the hospital for several nights before they’re ultimately released to begin a painful and arduous rehabilitation. Some patients require several weeks or months of rehabilitation before they’re able to resume their pre-surgery routines. Unfortunately, some patients experience failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), which is the continuation – or even the worsening – of symptoms following surgery.

Micro Back Fusion

Unlike traditional spinal fusion that requires a very large incision, micro back fusion is performed endoscopically through an incision that is typically less than one inch long. The surgeon inserts a series of tubes (each one slightly larger in diameter than the last) through the incision, which gently moves soft tissue to the side and eliminates the need to dissect any musculature. A camera and tiny surgical tools are fed through the tube, and the surgeon begins the process of removing the affected intervertebral disc. An implant is then inserted in the empty disc space and micro hardware is used to connect it to adjacent vertebrae. Bone graft material is also inserted, and will eventually fuse the implant and the surrounding vertebrae together.

These procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and require a much less intensive rehabilitation than traditional spinal fusion. Most patients are able to resume daily activities within a matter of weeks, and some even experience immediate relief following their procedures. Patients also face a lower risk of developing FBSS than they would if they had undergone traditional spinal fusion.

Deciding Between the Two Procedures

Patients who are interested in undergoing micro back fusion in lieu of traditional spinal fusion should consult with their physicians to learn more about the risks and benefits of both procedures. Before consenting to any operation, it may be in the patient’s best interest to receive a second or third opinion to ensure that surgery truly is their best option for relieving neck or back pain.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient micro back fusion procedures.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient micro back fusion procedures. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/disc_surgery/types/micro/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient micro back fusion procedures.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: micro back fusion