Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Capital Surgical Associates

Boise, Idaho

 
Mini 360 Lumbar Fusion Boise

What is Minimally Invasive Anterior / Posterior Lumbar Fusion?

Also known as Mini 360-Degree Lumbar Fusion, Minimally Invasive Anterior/Posterior Lumbar Fusion is a spinal surgery commonly performed for fusing the lumbar vertebrae from the anterior as well as the posterior side of the spine. Small incisions are made anterior in the abdominal area and posterior in the lower back area during this procedure. Smaller incisions result in minimized pain, quicker recovery, less bleeding, and less muscle damage than more extensive fusions. The surgery goal is to stop abnormal movements at the involved level of the spine, which are causing painful symptoms.

Many methods are used for fusing the lumbar spine; however, Mini 350 Lumbar Fusion has proven one of the most successful methods. Typically, two surgeons perform this surgery- one who accesses the spine from the anterior side and another who approaches the spine from the back.

Minimally Invasive Anterior / Posterior Lumbar Fusion As a Treatment

This type of surgery may be necessary to treat the following conditions:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Infection or tumor of the lumbar spine
  • Fracture of the lumbar spine
 
Dr. Hessing | Boise Native | Boise

Why Your Doctor Might Recommend is Minimally Invasive Anterior / Posterior Lumbar Fusion?

Before recommending surgery, your orthopedic doctor will likely recommend conservative treatment options like pain medications or physical therapy. However, if you don’t see an improvement in symptoms, your doctor may recommend spinal surgery.

By fusing both the front and back parts of vertebrae, a larger surface area is provided for the bones to fuse together, and a high degree of stability is provided for the spine. Many studies have shown that fusing both sides of the spine does lead to a high fusion rate (more than 95% of these surgeries lead to solid fusion). According to some surgeons, if fusion is achieved through the anterior and posterior approach, the patient can be mobilized earlier during the post-operative period.

Read The Guide to Caring for Your Back

What Does Recovering from a Mini 360 Lumbar Fusion Look Like?

Most patients stay at the hospital for about 1 to 2 days. After the surgery, you may feel some pain, but your doctor will prescribe pain medications to prevent post-operative pain and discomfort. Fusion of the bones takes time; it may take several months for the bones to fuse completely, although your comfort level will improve faster. While your body heals, the spine should be kept in proper alignment. Your doctor will ask you to wear a brace or a corset to restrict bending and promote healing of the spine. You will also work with a healthcare team on sitting, standing, walking, and repositioning correctly.

As your symptoms gradually improve, so will your activity level. Initially, your doctor may recommend you do only light activities like walking. As strength increases, your activity level will also increase. You will likely begin physical therapy 4-6 weeks after the surgery, giving your spine time to heal. Your doctor will advise you against actions that may cause damage, including twisting and bending backward.

Visit an Orthopedic Specialist at Capital Surgical Associates

Our orthopedic specialists, Dr. Hessing, Dr. Applonie, and Dr. Johnson, are here to help if you are in pain from an injury or dealing with a chronic condition.

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Dr. Jeffrey Hessing, Shoulder Surgery Specialist in Boise, Idaho
Dr. Ryan Applonie, Shoulder Surgery Specialist in Boise, Idaho
Dr. Miers Johnson, Orthopedic Specialist in Boise, Idaho