This type of surgery uses smaller incisions than standard surgery. This often causes less harm to nearby muscles and other tissues. It can lead to less pain and faster recovery after surgery.

In general, the goal of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is to stabilize the vertebral bones and spinal joints and/or relieve pressure being applied to the spinal nerves — often a result of conditions such as spinal instability, bone spurs, herniated discs, scoliosis or spinal tumors.

As opposed to open spine surgery, minimally invasive surgical approaches can be faster, safer and require less recovery time. Because of the reduced trauma to the muscles and soft tissues (compared to open procedures), the potential benefits are:

Better cosmetic results from smaller skin incisions (sometimes as small as several millimeters)

Less blood loss from surgery

Reduced risk of muscle damage, since less or no cutting of the muscle is required

Reduced risk of infection and postoperative pain

Faster recovery from surgery and less rehabilitation required

Diminished reliance on pain medications after surgery