Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a modern surgical technique that uses smaller incisions and muscle-sparing approaches to treat a wide range of spinal conditions. This advanced approach typically results in less blood loss, reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery.
Dr. Rajesh Bindal, board-certified neurosurgeon at Texas Spine & Neurosurgery in Sugar Land, is a pioneer in minimally invasive back surgery in Texas. He performed the first minimally invasive spinal decompression and lumbar fusion in Fort Bend County, and has published extensively on techniques to improve the safety and precision of MISS.
How Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Works
Minimally invasive spine surgery typically involves:
- A small incision near the surgical site
- Use of tubular retractors to gently separate (not cut) muscle tissue
- A surgical microscope for improved visualization
- Specialized surgical instruments to access the spine with precision
- Fluoroscopy (intraoperative X-ray) to confirm accurate placement
This approach preserves muscle structure, reduces tissue trauma, and results in smaller scars and quicker return to activity.
Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Dr. Bindal uses minimally invasive techniques to treat a variety of spinal conditions, particularly in the lumbar spine:
1. Herniated Disc
- Treated with microlumbar discectomy
- Often performed on an outpatient basis
- Rapid return to work, often within 1–2 weeks
2. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
- Treated with minimally invasive laminectomy
- Typically requires outpatient .
3. Lumbar Instability or Spondylolisthesis
- Treated with minimally invasive lumbar fusionÂ
- Bone grafts and titanium hardware stabilize the spine
- Less disruption to spinal anatomy, faster recovery
4. Vertebral Compression Fractures
- Treated with kyphoplasty, a procedure involving injection of bone cement
- Provides immediate pain relief and spinal support
- Performed through a minimally invasive approach
- Treated with minimally invasive laminectomy
- Typically requires only an overnight stay, even in elderly patients
- Excellent safety profile for patients in their 70s and 80s
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Compared to traditional open spine surgery, minimally invasive techniques offer:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Less blood loss
- Reduced risk of infection
- Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge or overnight)
- Faster return to work and daily activities
- Lower postoperative pain and medication use
Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Right for You?
While many patients benefit from MISS, not all conditions or body types are suitable. Patients with:
- Severe spinal deformities
- Scar tissue from previous surgeries
- Obesity that limits access
may require traditional open surgery. Dr. Bindal will evaluate your symptoms, imaging, and overall health to determine the best surgical approach for your condition.
“He did spine surgery on my in 6/2002 . He did a awesome job and less than 1 yr I was walking again . Been 15 yrs . no more wheel chair .”
Schedule Your Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Consultation in Sugar Land, TX
If you’re suffering from chronic back pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis, or other spine conditions, Dr. Rajesh Bindal can help you explore whether minimally invasive spine surgery is the right option. With decades of experience and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Bindal offers safe, effective, and personalized care to help you get back to your life.
Call 281-313-0031 today to schedule your consultation at Texas Spine & Neurosurgery in Sugar Land, TX.
Check out our infographic to learn more about the Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery!