A minimally invasive laminectomy can be performed to treat:

• Spinal arthritis – inflammation of the facet joints in the spine or sacroiliac joints between the spine and the pelvis.
• Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal
• Herniated discs that are compressing nerve roots or the spine
• Spondylolisthesis – a spinal condition characterized by the forward movement or “slippage” of one vertebra in relation to the vertebra below it 

Numerous factors must be considered in determining who is a good candidate for minimally invasive laminectomy including the patient’s specific spinal condition, the severity of symptoms, and their overall health.

In this procedure, Dr. Singh will make a small incision, the size of a nickel, in the back at the level of nerve compression and insert a device called a tubular retractor. This thin tube-shaped tool allows for the creation of a tunnel, gently moving aside muscle and soft tissue, in the affected area of the spine to provide access to the compressed nerves. He can then insert small tools through the tunnel and operate to decompress the affected nerves.

Unlike traditional open surgery, which involves large incisions and muscle cutting, a minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy utilizes smaller incisions and specialized surgical techniques. The goal is to minimize tissue damage, reduce postoperative pain, speed up recovery, and achieve similar outcomes to open surgery.

Advantages of the procedure include a smaller incision than traditional methods, reduced damage to muscle and soft tissue, faster recovery time, limited blood loss and a reduction in post-operative pain with most patient’s avoiding the use of narcotic medications.