The use of minimally invasive surgery in spine trauma: a review of concepts

J Spine Surg, 2019 · DOI: 10.21037/jss.2019.04.13 · Published: June 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

Traumatic spine injuries are common and can negatively impact health if diagnosis is delayed. Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) offers an alternative to traditional open surgery, particularly beneficial for patients with multiple injuries who may not tolerate open approaches. MISS techniques preserve soft tissue while achieving decompression, stabilization, and deformity correction. These techniques have been applied in unstable fractures, flexion-extension injuries, and sacral fractures. Traditional open surgeries have drawbacks like increased blood loss, longer operative times, and higher infection risk. MISS aims to reduce these complications, improving postoperative care and rehabilitation.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review Article

Key Findings

1
MISS can reduce blood loss, shorten operative times, and decrease length of stay compared to open procedures in treating type A-compression TL fractures.
2
MISS is associated with lower postoperative pain and improved functional recovery within 3 months post-surgery.
3
MISS is superior to open approaches in terms of infection rates, with significantly lower surgical site infection (SSI) rates reported.

Research Summary

This review discusses the application of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) techniques in treating spine trauma, highlighting its advantages over traditional open surgery. MISS aims to reduce approach-associated morbidity, improve postoperative care, and facilitate rehabilitation in various spine fractures and clinical scenarios. While MISS offers considerable advantages, more high-quality outcomes data is needed to fully establish its benefits and refine techniques for spine trauma treatment.

Practical Implications

Reduced Morbidity

MISS techniques can minimize the physiological burden and morbidity associated with traditional open approaches, particularly beneficial for poly-trauma patients.

Improved Recovery

Patients undergoing MISS may experience less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster functional recovery compared to open surgery.

Lower Infection Risk

MISS is associated with a reduced risk of surgical site infections (SSI), making it a preferable option for spine trauma patients.

Study Limitations

1
Steep learning curve associated with MISS techniques.
2
The lack of visual and tactile anatomic landmarks may present a challenge to the inexperienced surgeon.
3
Inability to accurately visualize anatomical structures increases the risk of screw malposition.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Surgery