As with any spinal condition and depending on the severity of the symptoms, conservative care should always be suggested first before surgical intervention. Typically conservative treatment starts with anti-inflammatory medications or NSAIDS (Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs i.e. Ibuprofen), physical therapy, activity modifications and steroid injections.

Spinal Stenosis Surgery

When conservative care is exhausted and the patients are still in pain, surgery is a logical step to relieve the pain. Traditionally, central and lateral recess stenosis is performed open with a large incision in the skin. A laminectomy and or facetectomy are performed to release the pressure on the spinal cord. Unfortunately, this technique is invasive and leads to significant post-operative pain and recovery. With innovation and advances in technology, a less invasive endoscopic technique has been developed to address these painful conditions such as foraminal stenosis.

The Minuteman Technique

The Minuteman® procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique designed for the fixation and stabilization of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine. This procedure utilizes an interspinous-interlaminar fusion device known as the Minuteman®, which is implanted to provide support while awaiting bony fusion to occur.

Dr. Gabriele Jasper MD's patient walkthrough for performing the Minuteman Spacer procedure involves several key steps:

1. Patient Preparation: The patient is positioned prone (face down) on the operating table, and the area of the spine to be treated is sterilized and prepped.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the spine, and sedation will be used to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure.
3. Incision: A small incision is made over the targeted vertebrae to access the spine.
4. Insertion of the Spacer: The Minuteman Spacer, a small interspinous device, is carefully inserted between the spinous processes of the vertebrae. This device helps to stabilize and decompress the spinal segments.
5. Bone Graft Placement: Bone graft material is placed within the spacer to promote stability of the vertebrae over time.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and the area is bandaged.
7. Post-Operative Care: The patient is monitored for a short period before being discharged with instructions for post-operative care, including activity restrictions and follow-up appointments.

This procedure is minimally invasive and aims to provide relief from spinal stenosis and other related conditions by stabilizing the spine and reducing pressure on the nerves.