Minimal Access Spinal Techniques (MAST)
Dr Szabo performs lumbar fusion in selected patients using a minimally invasive approach. Traditional, open spine surgery involves cutting and stripping the muscles from the spine, causing significant postoperative pain and longer recovery. Minimally invasive spine surgery requires a smaller incision and muscle dilation, a surgical technique that allows the surgeon to move the muscles surrounding the spine rather than stripping them.
MAST is a procedure that involves minimal interference to surrounding tissue which helps the patient recover faster than anticipated. As a result, Dr Szabo is able to correct spinal deformity and treat back pain with minimal interruption to nearby structures and tissue. Minimally invasive surgeries have been refined over the years due to advanced technologies such as cameras, scopes, x-rays, anatomy imaging, video navigation, miniature surgical equipment and microscopes.
Minimal Access Spinal Techniques Spine Surgery X-Ray
MIS refers to Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery. Other terms related to MIS are minimal access spinal surgery, endoscopic spine surgery, or laser spine surgery. This spine surgery is less invasive because surgery is performed through a few punctures through which tubular retractors or an endoscope is inserted. MIS helps to reduce the risk of infection and decrease pain, facilitates faster recovery, and improves back muscle function.
Muscle is only split but left in its natural state. Instead, the muscle is divided along natural sections to access the affected region. A live x-ray on Dr Szabo’s computer screen helps him locate the problem area in the spine and work in that region. He is, therefore, able to operate with extreme precision with no risk of error.
A minimally invasive lumbar fusion procedure, such as a posterior lumbar interbody fusion, posterolateral fusion, or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, typically leaves a small scar or scars. Post-surgical discomfort is less, and patients are able to go home sooner after surgery.
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