Not all spinal conditions require large incisions, lengthy hospital stays, or months of recovery. Thanks to advances in medical technology, minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is now a leading option for many patients — offering quicker healing, less pain, and minimal disruption to your daily life.
At London Spine Health, we specialise in minimally invasive techniques for a wide range of spinal issues, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression. But how do you know if it’s right for you?
Here’s what you need to know — including when to consider this modern surgical approach.
What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses smaller incisions, advanced imaging, and precision instruments to perform the same procedures as traditional open surgery — but with significantly less trauma to the surrounding muscles and tissues.
Instead of cutting through large areas of muscle to reach the spine, the surgeon uses tubular retractors to create a small pathway, allowing access to the spine through a narrow corridor. This leads to:
Reduced blood loss
Lower risk of infection
Shorter hospital stay
Smaller scars
Faster recovery time
It’s often combined with robotic or computer-assisted navigation for improved accuracy and outcomes.
Conditions That May Be Treated with MISS
Minimally invasive techniques can be used to treat a range of spinal conditions, including:
Herniated or bulging discs
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
Sciatica or nerve compression
Spinal fractures or instability
Certain spinal tumours or infections
The specific type of procedure will depend on your diagnosis. Common surgeries performed minimally invasively include discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion.
When Should You Consider Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
You might want to explore MISS if:
1. Conservative Treatments Haven’t Worked
If you’ve tried physiotherapy, medications, injections, or rest for more than 6–12 weeks with little to no improvement, surgery may be the next step.
2. Your Symptoms Are Worsening
Progressive symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness in the limbs, or difficulty walking may indicate nerve compression that requires surgical intervention.
3. You Want to Avoid Open Surgery
If you’re concerned about the risks and recovery time associated with open back or neck surgery, MISS offers a less invasive and often safer alternative — especially for older patients or those with busy lifestyles.
4. You’re a Candidate for Day Surgery
Many minimally invasive procedures can be performed as day cases or require only a short overnight stay, making them more accessible and convenient for most patients.
5. You’ve Been Told You Need Spinal Fusion or Decompression
These procedures can often be done using minimally invasive methods, reducing downtime while maintaining long-term results.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Compared to traditional methods, patients who undergo MISS at London Spine Health often experience:
Faster return to work or daily activity
Less post-operative pain
Reduced reliance on opioid medications
Fewer complications and infections
Better preservation of spinal muscles and function
It’s especially beneficial for patients with active lifestyles or those who want to minimise disruption to their routine.
Why Choose London Spine Health?
At London Spine Health, you’ll receive care from Mr Irfan Malik, one of the UK’s leading spine surgeons with specialist training in minimally invasive and robotic spine procedures.
We offer:
Advanced diagnostics (MRI, CT, X-rays)
Consultant-led treatment plans
Modern surgical suites and recovery protocols
Personalised rehabilitation programmes
Honest, evidence-based advice tailored to your condition
Not every patient will need surgery — and not every case qualifies for MISS. That’s why we always begin with a thorough consultation and imaging review.
Book a Consultation Today
If you’re living with ongoing back or neck pain and want to explore a faster, less invasive path to recovery, we’re here to help.
