What is Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion?

Minimally invasive spinal fusion is a surgical procedure to join two or more vertebrae together, which reduces excess motion and relieves pain.

The Procedure

• Small incisions are made to access the spine.
• Vertebrae are fused using bone grafts, screws, or spacers.
  
  

Conditions Treated

• Disc degeneration
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spinal instability
  
  

Benefits

• Less tissue damage
• Lower risk of infection
• Less blood loss
• Reduced pain
• Faster recovery compared to open surgery
  
  

Risks

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Blood clots
• Implant rejection
• Nonunion of fused bones
  
  

Recovery

• Varies among patients.
• Many return to normal activities within four to six weeks.
  
  

Goals

• Stabilize the spine.
• Alleviate pain.
• Improve patient quality of life.