Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Created by host on 10/30/2011 11:56:20 PM Because of the minimally invasive nature of the procedure there is not a lot of pain following surgery. Your doctor will write you a prescription for pain medication to use as needed.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Is there a lot of pain after surgery?
Because of the minimally invasive nature of the procedure there is not a lot of pain following surgery. Your doctor will write you a prescription for pain medication to use as needed. If pain is excessive you should contact your doctor.
Can I shower after surgery?
You will have a waterproof dressing on your back. You may shower quickly but, try not to soak the dressing. Do not use a hot tub.
What are my limitations after surgery?
You should take it easy. You can walk and lie down. Try to limit sitting to 10 — 15 minutes at a time since this position will tend to make you sore. After two weeks, you can slowly increase your activity.
Check with your physician prior to participation in strenuous sports or any activity that uses a lot of twisting motion. These activities can normally be resumed two to three months after surgery.
Is this surgery experimental?
The Apeture System technique has been used successfully since 1995. It is a minimally invasive way to perform the same procedure that has been successfully used to treat disc herniations for more than 60 years.
Will I have a large scar?
The incision is less than one inch long and usually heals so it is barely noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minimal incision surgery leads to rapid clinical success
Back Problems
When the spine is injured and its function is impaired the consequences can be painful and even disabling. A herniated or ruptured disc is one of the most common spinal disorders. A ruptured disc in the low back can "pinch" the spinal nerve root causing buttock and leg pain (sometimes called sciatica).
Conducting tests, such as an MRI and identifying regions of pain through physical exam, can determine the area of the disc rupture in the spine. For some patients all that is required to heal and recover is time. For others, medication may reduce the inflammation or ease the pain in the affected area.
Your doctor has proposed surgery to relieve your pinched nerve using a minimally invasive surgical treatment option. In an effort to help you make an informed decision about the treatment of your pain and related problems, this brochure will explain basic spinal anatomy and the Apeture surgical option.
Physical therapy or exercise may also provide relief from pain and aid in the recovery from a ruptured disc. If your pain does not respond to these measures your doctor may recommend a Apeture surgical procedure.
The Procedure
The Apeture- System surgical procedure is a minimally invasive operation on the lumbar (low back) or cervical (neck) spine and requires only a very small incision. It allows the surgeon to remove only the portion of your ruptured disc which is "pinching" the spinal nerve root.
The patient is under anesthesia and a small incision is made over the disc space. The muscle is then dilated to avoid any unnecessary muscle damage. The ruptured disc is removed through the small tube and the wound is closed with sutures followed by a small bandage. The recovery time for the Apeture System procedure is usually much less than required for traditional discectomy surgery.
After Surgery
Though there may still be some discomfort following surgery, it is minimal. Your surgeon will release you from the hospital when:
· your vital signs are stable.
· you regain the ability to walk on your own.
· you can eat without nausea. and
· your bladder' activity is normal.
The length and degree of recovery depends on your commitment. It is important that you follow your physician’s instructions.
When can I have sexual intercourse?
You can engage in sexual activity when you feel comfortable, usually after one to two weeks. Remember to moderate your activities and try to find a more comfortable position if you have any pain.
Will I need medication?
You will be given Hydrocodone or a similar oral pain medication. Remember to use ice packs regularly and to lie down when you need to rest your back.
Does my insurance pay for this surgery?
Yes. Insurance companies recognize this surgery as a minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy.
When can I drive?
After two days following surgery you can drive short distances when you are comfortable sitting in a car. Sitting tends to aggravate the pain more than any other position so limiting sitting and driving for the first 1—2 weeks is a good idea.
