In recent years, technological advances have allowed more back and neck conditions to be treated with a minimally invasive surgical technique. Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), does not involve a long incision, and it avoids significant damage to the muscles surrounding the spine. Typically, this results in less pain after surgery and a faster recovery.
The indications for minimally invasive spine surgery are the same as those for traditional open surgery. Spine surgery is usually recommended only when a period of nonsurgical treatment — such as medications and physical therapy — has not relieved the painful symptoms caused by your back problem. In addition, surgery is only considered if your doctor can pinpoint the exact source of your pain, such as a herniated disk or spinal stenosis.