MISS is one of the latest and technologically advanced spinal surgeries used with a less than one-inch-long incision. The orthopedic surgeon deploys special surgical instruments, devices and advanced imaging techniques for visualizing and performing surgery using small incisions. This surgery is aimed at minimizing damage to muscles and other surrounding structures.

The benefits of adopting the MISS procedure include:

Procedure

There are small incisions made to the spine. These incisions are used to pass through retractors and dilators to retract muscles and easily access the spine. This allows for the surgeon to create a working channel while minimizing damage to muscles and soft tissues. The approach also helps reduce blood loss.

The insertion of an endoscope through one of the incisions provides inside imagery of the operation field onto the monitor. Special surgical instruments are used to pass through the working channel. A surgeon may also opt to use a surgical microscope to magnify the visual field. Upon completion of the procedure, the tissues fall back, and the incision is closed and dressed.

Associated Risks & Complications

There can be different risks and complications the patient needs to be aware of. Some of the possible complications or risks include bleeding, nerve injury, infection, spinal cord injury, or complications due to the use of general anesthesia.