What will my pre-op routine look like?  

​

Your physician will provide you complete details, but generally patients must refrain from drinking or eating for at least 12 hours prior to surgery. Your physician may also ask you to pause taking certain medications prior to surgery. Any medication changes should not be made without first consulting your physician.  As is the case with most surgical procedures, please be sure to secure transportation to and from the surgery center or hospital.  

​

What happens during the procedure?  

​

Similar to most spinal procedures, patients are positioned lying on their chest, which is often called the prone position. The surgical team will sterilize the procedure site with an antiseptic solution and then provide an anesthetic to numb the operative site. Some procedures can be done with local anesthetic alone, which benefits patients with complex medical conditions who may need to avoid general anesthesia.  

​

During the procedure, the doctor will make a small incision (generally 1 inch or less) on the patient’s side. Minimally invasive surgical tools are used to access the targeted spinal area. This minimally invasive technique includes dilation of the soft tissues, as opposed to directly cutting through the muscles or ligaments. This approach often provides shorter operative time, less blood loss, reduced hospital stays and a faster recovery time.  

​

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes – far less time than a typical spinal fusion surgery.  

​

What should I expect post-operation?  

​

Because Minuteman is a minimally invasive procedure, it can usually be done as an outpatient surgery. Patients generally leave the hospital or ambulatory surgery center the same day. While each case is different, patients can usually expect a full recovery within a few days to a week, with minimal post-operative pain.  

​

What do I need to know about post-operative care? 

​

Your physician will typically provide information on best practices for getting in and out of bed and walking safely. Your doctor will likely tell you to avoid lifting heavy objects. Significant twisting or bending of your back should also be minimized for four-to-six weeks. They will also instruct you on how to take care of the small incision area for optimal healing.

​

To speak with a technician or locate a physician in your area, please click here.