Tampa General Hospital’s Neuroscience Institute performs more complex spine operations than any other hospital in Florida and is a premier destination for advanced procedures like minimally invasive lateral surgery. While most traditional spine surgeries require making a large incision on the patient’s abdomen or back, minimally invasive lateral surgery accesses the spine through a small incision on the patient’s side, leaving major muscles and organs undisturbed.
Conditions Treated With Minimally Invasive Lateral Surgery
A minimally invasive lateral approach may be taken during the surgical treatment of various degenerative spine diseases and disorders, including but not limited to:
- Flat back syndrome
- Degenerative scoliosis
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
Many sources of back pain can be treated or effectively managed with conservative methods like physical therapy, medication and healthy lifestyle changes. However, if disruptive symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, spine surgery may be appropriate.
Minimally Invasive Lateral Procedure Details
The exact details of a patient’s minimally invasive lateral surgery will vary based on the underlying condition and the extent of the issue. Generally speaking, the procedure involves:
- Placing the patient under general anesthesia to prevent discomfort
- Making a small incision in the psoas muscle on the patient’s side (as well as a small incision in the back, in some cases)
- Using highly specialized instruments to access the spine through the small incision(s) and address issues such as nerve compression and disc herniation
What to Expect From Minimally Invasive Lateral Surgery
Because minimally invasive lateral surgery avoids disrupting major muscles, many patients can walk in a matter of hours after the procedure and leave the hospital the following day. This minimally invasive approach also offers several benefits to patients when compared to traditional open surgery, including:
- A shorter operation time with less anesthesia
- Lower risk of surgical complications
- Less surgical blood loss
- Reduced post-operative discomfort
- A faster return to normal activity
Become a TGH Patient
TGH’s Neuroscience Institute stands at the forefront of minimally invasive spinal care. In fact, TGH is one of only two spine centers in the country with the ability to perform lateral disc replacement and spinal fusion with a patient remaining in the prone position (on their belly) the entirety of the operation. We’re also ranked among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for Neurology and Neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-25.
To schedule an appointment with a spine specialist at Tampa General Hospital, call (800) 822-3627.
