TREATMENT
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Precision surgical treatment with minimal tissue disruption.
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a surgical approach that uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to access the spine with less disruption to surrounding muscles and tissue. By limiting surgical trauma, these techniques support faster recovery while effectively addressing the source of symptoms.
At Beckett NeuroSpine, the least invasive approach is selected that fully addresses the patient’s symptoms, condition, and treatment goals.
“My goal with every procedure is to solve the problem completely while asking as little of the patient’s body as possible. Minimally invasive techniques, when appropriate, are the clearest expression of that philosophy.”
What Is Minimally
Invasive Spine Surgery?
Traditional spine surgery often requires larger incisions and muscle dissection to reach the spine. Minimally invasive techniques instead use targeted access points and advanced visualization to treat the affected area with greater precision.
These procedures typically rely on:
• High-resolution surgical imaging
• Microsurgical instruments
• Tubular retractors or small access channels
• Targeted decompression of nerves
• Advanced visualization techniques
This approach allows surgeons to address the underlying spine condition while preserving as much normal anatomy as possible.
Why Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Degenerative disc disease is common, but its impact varies from patient to patient. For carefully selected individuals, minimally invasive techniques offer a way to relieve nerve compression and restore function while minimizing disruption to surrounding structures.
By limiting tissue damage and focusing treatment on the precise source of symptoms, these procedures can support a more predictable recovery and earlier return to daily activity.
Minimally invasive surgery is not appropriate for every condition, but when indicated, it can provide an effective and thoughtful alternative to more extensive surgical approaches.
Minimally Invasive Surgical
Procedures
The following procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques, selected based on each patient’s diagnosis, imaging findings, and the precise source of their symptoms.
Microdiscectomy
A minimally invasive procedure that removes herniated disc material compressing a spinal nerve. It is one of the most effective treatments for arm or leg pain caused by disc herniation.
Laminectomy
Removes part of the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Commonly used to treat spinal stenosis causing back pain, leg pain, or difficulty walking.
Foraminotomy
Enlarges the opening where spinal nerves exit the spine to relieve compression from bone spurs or disc material. Often used for foraminal stenosis causing persistent arm or leg symptoms.
Decompression
A group of procedures designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves by removing the structures causing compression. May include laminectomy, foraminotomy, or discectomy depending on the condition.
Kyphoplasty
A minimally invasive procedure that stabilizes vertebral compression fractures by restoring height and reinforcing the bone with cement. Often used for fractures related to osteoporosis or trauma.
Spinal Fusion
Procedures designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves or the spinal cord by removing the structures causing compression.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion
Removes a damaged disc in the cervical spine and stabilizes the segment to relieve nerve or spinal cord compression.
Corpectomy
Removes part of a vertebral body and adjacent discs to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, typically in more advanced cases.
Posterior Cervical Fusion
Stabilizes the cervical spine from the back of the neck, often used when additional structural support is needed.
Kyphoplasty
Minimally invasive procedure used to treat certain spinal fractures by stabilizing the vertebra and restoring height.
Revision Spine Surgery
Corrective procedures performed to address persistent symptoms or complications from prior spine surgery.
When is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Appropriate?
Minimally invasive techniques are most effective when the source of symptoms is clearly defined and can be fully addressed through a narrow approach. Not every spine condition fits this model; selecting the wrong surgical approach, even a less invasive one, does not serve the patient.
Minimally invasive techniques may be considered when:
- A herniated disc, bone spur, or thickened ligament is causing nerve compression
- Foraminal narrowing is producing persistent arm or leg pain
- A vertebral compression fracture requires stabilization
- Conservative treatment has not provided sufficient relief
- Imaging findings clearly correlate with clinical symptoms
When a condition requires more extensive reconstruction, deformity correction, or revision of prior surgery, a more involved approach may be necessary. The surgical plan is determined through a detailed evaluation of the diagnosis, imaging, and functional goals.
Find The Right Treatment for Your Spine
The most effective treatment approach begins with an accurate diagnosis and a clear understanding of the underlying condition. A comprehensive evaluation allows Dr. Beckett to develop a treatment plan that is both precise and appropriate.
TESTIMONIALS FROM OUR PATIENTS
This has been an Incredible surgery and recovery process. Neurosurgeon Dr. Beckett is exceptional, one of a kind in diagnosis, surgical skill and communication; It was an honor to be cared for by him and his entire team. I have had immediate relief from a tough- long-standing injury. Dr. Beckett’s team, including Brian Sorto DNP, Cat Gonzalez and the staff of the in house surgery center made my surgery and recovery a smooth and seamless experience. I recommend Dr. Beckett highly and his surgical and office team.
Before and after. All the nerve pain is gone!! Thank you Dr. Beckett!!
After more than a year of debilitating pain in both arms, I had given up many daily activities. Dr. Beckett carefully explained the issues in my neck and how disc replacement could help. He reviewed my imaging in detail so I understood the treatment plan. Six weeks after surgery, my symptoms are gone and I’m back to the activities I love. I’m deeply grateful for Dr. Beckett and his compassionate team.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Dr Beckett is an especially skilled doctor and surgeon. He takes the time to explain things thoroughly thus managing patient expectations. I went into surgery with 1000% trust which made the entire experience pleasurable
After a year and a half of severe nerve pain in both arms, I was referred to Dr. Beckett for C5–C7 disc replacement. He explained the diagnosis and treatment clearly and helped me feel confident moving forward with surgery. The results have been outstanding. Dr. Beckett and his entire staff showed exceptional care and compassion throughout the process. I would trust him with any member of my family.
C5-7 Disc Replacement
Dr. Beckett and his entire staff are thee best. I am in my six month of recovery from my L4/L5 surgery and it has been as good of an experience as I could have hoped for. Dr. Beckett, Brian Sorto and Cat Gonzales were always there to help and support me any time I would reach out. Dr Beckett is never in a rush and I always felt I was being heard. I hope I never have to go through another back surgery, but if I do, there is no one I would rather have taking care of me.
L4/L5 Surgery
Deciding on a surgeon is always scary, but putting your trust in someone to operate on your spine is honestly terrifying. I spoke with a couple of surgeons about my case, but after my first consult with Dr. Beckett, I knew he was the right choice. Even over Zoom, it was clear to me that he wasn’t just a gifted surgeon but also an exceptional person.
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