What is Laser Spine Surgery?
Contrary to popular belief, “laser spine surgery” rarely, if ever, involves a “laser.” The term “laser spine surgery” originated decades ago when a “laser” was used to cauterize the disc in a percutaneous manner. The idea of a minimally invasive approach to spine surgery subsequently evolved and became associated with the term “laser.”
Often what is now still refered to as laser spine surgery is simply minimally invasive spine surgery. These are procedures that are performed through a small incision with the aid of a tubular retractor system and the visual guidance of either a microscope or an endoscope.
This kind of minimally invasive surgery is attractive because of minimal tissue disturbance and faster recovery. It is technically challenging, however, and requires a specially trained spine surgeon to achieve good outcomes.
Learn more about Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.
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