To begin with, laser spine surgery is still a controversial subject whereas minimally invasive spine surgery is well established & practiced by many orthopedic surgeons. Since there are several misconceptions regarding laser spine surgery, it would be right that we understand what it is before making an informed assessment.
What is Laser Spine Surgery?
Quite often used alongside minimally invasive surgery, laser spine surgery claims to be more efficient & effective than the other. This procedure utilizes laser to cut through in place of the scalpel which is used in traditional procedures. Nevertheless, laser spine surgery also requires an incision so as to insert the laser into the appropriate operation site. This laser is subsequently utilized for removal of soft tissues which are causing herniated disc symptoms. Moreover, lasers only play a small part in the laser spine surgery operation, wherein other operating tools are also required for removal of bone & ligaments.
What is Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Basic goal of minimally invasive surgery is to minimize trauma to surrounding tissue around spine & thereby result in less blood loss, lesser pain along with faster recovery. This is typically achieved by performing the operation through small sized incisions, using an endoscope or operating microscope in order to closely view structures within spine. While the endoscope probes through one small incision, special tiny operating instruments are inserted through another small incision. Muscles are separated through natural planes since they run vertically along back in order to gain access to spine. Healing time is therefore greatly reduced this way in comparison with traditional open spine surgery.
Choosing Between Laser Back Surgery or Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Although laser spine surgery can be effective for some spine surgeries, it may not be able to achieve successful results in treatment of lumbar disc herniation. However, minimally invasive surgery is able to prove effective in many cases of spinal problems, though tradition open procedures may be required in others. Moreover, since laser is a straight beam of light, it may at times be difficult to maneuver around corners in order to reach appropriate operation sites.
Affordable Laser Spine Surgery in India
India is an excellent destination for international patients to undergo affordable spine surgery at affordable costs, especially for laser spine surgery which is very expensive in other parts of the world. Nevertheless, all types of spine surgeries in India are low cost without compromising on quality of the procedure. Spine surgeons in India are well experienced & globally renowned to be highly skilled in performing the most complex orthopedic operations.