Minimally Invasive Lumbar Microdecompression in Seattle, WA
What is Minimally Invasive Lumbar Microdecompression?
Minimally-Invasive Lumbar Microdecompression (MILM) is a surgical procedure used to treat spinal stenosis and herniated discs. MILM is an alternative to a traditional “open” laminectomy.
This minimally invasive procedure is used to remove overgrown vertebral bone and soft tissue to relieve the compression of nerve roots in the lumbar spine. It is performed through a small incision on the back.
Dr. Edward Jung is a board-certified surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal stenosis and herniated discs. He is the Seattle area’s leading spinal surgeon highly trained in performing the MILM procedure. If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis or a herniated disc and are in need of treatment, call (206) 860-5578 to request an appointment at our spine surgery center in Seattle. During your appointment, Dr. Jung will take the time to fully explain your treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Preparation
After anesthesia has been administered and the patient is positioned face down, Dr. Jung uses a portable x-ray machine to identify the diseased vertebral level or levels. Then, Dr. Jung makes the smallest possible incision in the skin directly above the target level.
Accessing the Vertebra
A series of dilators of increasing size are carefully guided down through muscles and soft tissue. The surgeon slides a tubular retractor over the dilators and removes the dilators, creating a working channel that leaves muscle tissue intact. This working channel allows Dr. Jung to access the target vertebra and painful nerve root in a way that minimizes incisional pain and scarring of muscles.
Decompression
Dr. Jung may use a microscope or endoscope to direct surgical instruments through the working channel. Excess bone or tissue is carefully removed from the space around the nerve root, relieving pressure and pain.
Completing the Decompression
Dr. Jung may then shift the working channel, repositioning the retractor so that it is directed at the other side of the vertebra. This allows Dr. Jung to access the opposite side of the vertebra without creating a new incision in the skin. Dr. Jung inspects and relieves any compression ensuring that the nerve roots on both sides of the vertebra are completely free of obstruction.
End of Procedure and Aftercare
The instruments and the working channel are removed, and the incision is closed and bandaged. Most patients are discharged from the hospital the same day and can return to their usual activity level within a few weeks of surgery. The patient may take pain medication to relieve incisional pain, but usually this is needed for less than 1-2 weeks.
Schedule a Consultation for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Microdecompression in Seattle, WA Today!
Dr. Jung will work with you diligently to determine your best treatment options. We will take the time to educate you and answer your questions. We believe in engaging our patients to empower them to make the best decision to suit their condition.
Dr. Jung provides care to patients at his spine clinic near Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle, to see if you are a candidate for Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion, please call our office or request an appointment online!