Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)
Diagnosis & Understanding
3. MILD Procedure
2:04
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
6. Artificial Disc Replacement
1:52
7. Facet Joint Fusion
1:48
8. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Interspinous Fusion (Lateral)
1746881118
Interspinous fusion using a lateral approach is minimally invasive surgery for relieving back and leg pain due to lumbar spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal. The goal is to stabilize the spine and relieve nerve pressure. A small side incision minimizes back muscle damage, sparing the supra-spinous ligament. A metal device is placed between the back bones, known as the spinous processes, to stabilize the spine. This, along with a bone graft, helps the bones fuse over time for permanent support. Typically, this is an outpatient same-day surgery.
Before surgery, your surgeon will review your medical history, and MRI or CT scans will ensure the suitability of this approach. It's crucial to stop blood-thinning medications and halt solid foods 8 hours before and clear liquids 2 hours prior. Post-surgery, many patients feel immediate pain relief, but rest and limited activity are essential for healing. Recovery includes starting physical therapy a few weeks after surgery to regain strength and mobility, with full recovery possibly taking several months.
Alternatives include other spinal fusion surgeries performed from the front, back, or side, though these often involve more extensive surgery and longer recovery. Risks include infection, implant failure, or pseudarthrosis, where bones don't fully fuse. Those with severe osteoporosis or active infections may not be ideal candidates. Your surgeon and medical team will monitor for complications, and following postoperative instructions is key for the best outcome. Our team is dedicated to guiding you to the best treatment.
FAQs
Are there alternative treatments to interspinous fusion using the lateral approach?
Yes, alternative treatments include other spinal fusion surgeries, such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). These alternatives often involve more extensive surgery and longer recovery periods, depending on the patient's specific condition and health profile.
How should I prepare for interspinous fusion surgery?
Before the surgery, your surgeon will conduct a thorough review of your medical history and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the approach. It is crucial to stop blood-thinning medications before surgery and adhere to fasting guidelines, such as not eating solid foods at least 8 hours before the procedure and halting clear liquids 2 hours prior.
What are the potential risks associated with this procedure?
While generally considered safe, interspinous fusion can involve risks such as infection, implant failure, or pseudarthrosis, which occurs when the bones do not fully fuse. Patients with severe osteoporosis or active infections may not be ideal candidates for this procedure.
What can I expect during the recovery process from interspinous fusion surgery?
Post-surgery, many patients experience immediate pain relief, but it's important to rest and limit activities to promote healing. Physical therapy will typically begin a few weeks after the surgery to restore strength and mobility, with full recovery potentially taking several months.
What is interspinous fusion using a lateral approach?
Interspinous fusion using a lateral approach is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to relieve back and leg pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis. It involves stabilizing the spine and relieving nerve pressure by placing a metal device between the spinous processes of the vertebrae, complemented by a bone graft to encourage fusion and provide permanent support.