Daveed Frazier, MD, medical director of New York City Spine Surgery, set the record straight on minimally invasive spine surgery, according to nj.com.
Here are six things to know:
1. Dr. Frazier noted MIS doesn't necessarily indicate a small incision, but rather reflects the work done beneath the skin. That is, MIS involves limited or no cutting of muscle and soft tissue.
2. He also said surgeons must undergo a great deal of training to successfully perform MIS.
3. The benefits of MIS include less pain, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery, in addition to a reduced infection rate and fewer complications.
4. Dr. Frazier suggested patients seek surgeons who have a great deal of experience in both MIS and traditional open surgery, so they receive care most suitable to their circumstances.
5. Dr. Frazier concluded that about 80 percent of his practice's surgeries involve minimally invasive techniques.
6. Dr. Frazier completed his spine surgery fellowship at Jackson Memorial Hospital and his spinal deformity fellowship at Doctor's Hospital, both in Miami.