Spine Surgery

This page features an overview of our approach to spine treatments and pain management. Minimally invasive spine (MIS) surgery can address a variety of conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, fractures, and chronic back pain.

Understanding Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: A Modern Approach for Back Pain

When it comes to spine surgery, traditional methods often involve large incisions, prolonged hospital stays, and longer recovery times. However, advances in medical technology have introduced minimally invasive spine surgery(MIS), a technique that offers several benefits for patients. This modern approach allows for smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery, making it a preferred option for many individuals suffering from spine-related issues.

What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery is a procedure that involves making a small incision (often as small as half an inch) through which the surgeon accesses the affected area of the spine. Unlike traditional open surgery, where larger incisions are made to access the spine, MIS uses specialized instruments to minimize disruption to surrounding tissues and muscles.

This technique is made possible by advancements in surgical tools and technology. Using equipment like tubular retractors and fluoroscopy (real-time imaging), spine surgeons can navigate to the damaged area with precision, minimizing the damage to the muscles and soft tissues. As a result, patients experience less pain, reduced blood loss, and a quicker return to their daily activities.

Dr. Michael Rohan, Jr. – Expert in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Dr. Michael Rohan, Jr., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained spine surgeon, is at the forefront of minimally invasive spine surgery. He completed his fellowship at the prestigious Texas Back Institute, the first and largest spine specialty center in the U.S., known for pioneering advanced spine techniques. During his fellowship, Dr. Rohan specialized

in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, where he operated through a one-inch incision using tubular retractors, tiny cameras, and cutting-edge surgical tools.

Dr. Rohan’s expertise in these advanced techniques allows him to perform spine surgery with precision, ensuring quicker recovery times and less postoperative pain for his patients. As a trusted surgeon at OrthoEdge, Dr. Rohan and his team use the latest technology to help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive spine surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional open spine surgery:

Smaller Incisions: The incisions are much smaller, reducing scarring and healing

Less Tissue Damage: There’s minimal disruption to muscles and other tissues, which promotes faster healing.

Reduced Blood Loss: The procedure generally involves less blood loss, lowering the risk of complications.

Less Post-Operative Pain: Many patients report experiencing less pain after the surgery, resulting in a more comfortable recovery.

Quicker Recovery Time: With less tissue damage and blood loss, patients often return to their normal activities much sooner than with traditional surgery.

How Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Works

To perform minimally invasive spine surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision, through which they insert a tubular retractor, a device that gently moves muscles aside without tearing them. This device allows the surgeon to access the spine and perform the necessary procedure, whether it’s repairing a herniated disc or addressing spinal stenosis.

In some cases, the surgeon may use fluoroscopy, a type of real-time X-ray, to get continuous feedback on the position of the instruments, ensuring precision throughout the procedure. This minimizes the risk of errors and increases the effectiveness of the surgery.

Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for You?

Minimally invasive spine surgery isn’t suitable for every patient or every condition. While it’s highly effective for many spine issues, some complex conditions, like scoliosis or reconstructive spine surgery, may still require traditional open surgery.

To determine if MIS is right for you, consult with a spine specialist at OrthoEdge. Dr. Michael Rohan, Jr. can evaluate your specific needs and discuss whether minimally invasive surgery is a viable option. We’re here to ensure you receive the least invasive and most effective treatment possible.

Commonly Asked Questions About Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

What is a Minimally Invasive Tubular Retractor (MITR)? The MITR is a key tool in MIS. It’s inserted through a small incision and gently spreads muscles to create a narrow pathway to the spine. This minimizes muscle damage, unlike traditional surgery where muscles are pulled away from the spine.

Can All Spine Problems Be Treated Using Minimally Invasive Surgery? While MIS is effective for many conditions, it’s not suitable for every patient or spine issue. Complex problems like severe scoliosis may require traditional surgery. A consultation with your surgeon will determine the best approach for your situation.

What Are the Risks of Minimally Invasive Surgery? While MIS typically reduces risks compared to traditional surgery, it’s important to remember that all surgeries come with potential risks. These can include adverse reactions to anesthesia, infection, blood loss, or damage to the spine and surrounding tissues. However, these risks are rare, especially with the experienced surgeons at OrthoEdge.

How Can I Reduce the Risks of Surgery? To minimize risks, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice. This includes stopping smoking, avoiding unnecessary medications, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to improve your recovery. Regular exercise can also help boost your immune system and speed up healing.

Why Choose OrthoEdge for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

At OrthoEdge, we specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery and use the latest equipment and techniques to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients. Dr. Michael Rohan, Jr., with his extensive training and experience at the Texas Back Institute, is a trusted leader in

minimally invasive spine surgery in Jacksonville, FL. Our expert team is highly trained in these advanced procedures, ensuring that you receive the most effective and least invasive treatment available. If you’re considering spine surgery, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.