Minimally invasive spine surgery is touted for its smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays and lower costs. Although there were some complications, the technique remains a safe option, according to a narrative review study published Sept. 30 in Neurospine.
Five things to know:
1. Researchers analyzed complications associated with minimally invasive spine surgery. They looked at Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines and studies on adult minimally invasive spine surgery.
2. Out of 880 studies analyzed 137 were included for a final analysis. Key complications included hematomas, transient nerve root palsy, and dural tears, and complications varied by surgical approach.
3. Common thoracic minimally invasive spine surgery complications included cerebrospinal fluid leaks and durotomy.
4. Common lumbar minimally invasive spine complications were incidental dural injuries, postoperative neuropathic conditions and disc herniation recurrences.
5. The study concluded, "Intraoperative neuromonitoring and advanced technologies like navigation can help mitigate these risks. Despite variability in complication rates, MISS remains a safe, effective alternative with ongoing advancements enhancing its outcomes."