Traditional spinal surgeries usually require large incisions and stripping away the muscles of the spinal column just to get to a herniated disc. Now, new technology allows these complex procedures to be performed with the help of a microscope to magnify and illuminate the damaged area. Instead of stripping away the muscle, your surgeon can insert a microscope through a much smaller incision and create a tunnel to the disc. This is done by splitting the muscle to pass the instrument through.

Minimally invasive procedures result in less visible scars and shorter recovery times. A discectomy, or removal of the disc, can often be performed this way. Your doctor will decide if a minimally invasive procedure is right for you.