Pathfinder Lumbar Fusions

What is Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery has been used to relieve back pain since the 1950’s but minimally invasive lumbar fusion surgery is new and revolutionary.

Pathfinder spinal fusion - minimal scaringWhat are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion?

  • Reduced muscle injury
  • Shorter surgery times
  • Smaller incisions/scars
  • Less postoperative pain
  • Reduction in pain medication
  • Shorter recovery

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Are minimally invasive implants as strong as regular implants?

A. The PathFinder screws and rods used for your minimally invasive surgery are comparable to those used for a traditional open procedure.

Q. Is minimally invasive surgery for everyone?

A. No. Minimally invasive surgery can not address all spinal problems. Dr. Lieberson will suggest the surgery that is most likely to benefit you. Please ask questions. You are ultimately responsible for all of your health care decisions.

Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Surgery using the PathFinder System from Spinal Concepts:

The fluoroscope shows the surgeon that the screws are in the correct location. During the surgery, a fluoroscope (a type of low dose x-ray machine) is used to see the spine. The surgery is performed using two 1 ½ inch (4 centimeter) incisions. There is no need for a long scar. Pathfinder fluoroscope insertion during spine surgery
PathFinder Screws and rods are inserted on the first side through the same small incision. This is done using specially designed dilators.

Using the special instruments, the surgeon can accurately place the screws within the bone.

 

 PathFinder Screws and rods
After checking the films, the screws and rods are locked into position and screws are inserted on the opposite side. Pathfinder luoroscope shows that the screws are in the correct location

 

Northern California Neurosurgery Medical Group, Inc.
A spine care and injury practice with offices in Fremont, California

The information in this site briefly describes our practice and discusses some of the options available to our patients. This web site is not a substitute for good medical care or for a consultation with a spine specialist. It should not be used to plan your treatment. If you need medical help, you can schedule a visit with our doctors by clicking here. The well considered advice of a specialist who has personally examined you is always superior to even the best internet pages.

Copyright © 2007, Northern California Neurosurgery Medical Group. All rights are reserved.  No part of this web site may be reproduced, transmitted, or stored, electronically or on paper, without the written permission of the Northern California Neurosurgery Medical Group, Inc.
Last modified: 01/01/08