Overview & Procedure
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) is a minimally invasive procedure for patients suffering from back and leg pain caused by moderate lumbar stenosis. This is an outpatient procedure with a rapid recovery time and no destabilization of the spine. MILD allows your doctor to remove small portions of the bone and ligaments that cause excess pressure on your spinal nerve roots. This is completed through a small port usually fluoroscopy. MILD was developed to provide patients with a safe and effective alternative to more aggressive spinal surgery techniques when conservative treatment has failed to relieve their symptoms.
After Care
Immediately after the procedure, patients are sent to a separate room to recover. During this time, the patient's vitals are monitored for any signs of an adverse reaction. Later that day, the patient will go home after they are given self-care instructions. An adult family member or friend will need to drive the patient home. It is recommended the patient be monitored 24 hours after receiving IV sedation. A prescription for pain medication or other medications will be sent to the pharmacy following the procedure to be filled right away. Use ice at least for the first 48 hours; however, continue to use it as needed after that. An appointment should be scheduled 7-13 days post-operatively. Complications from this procedure are rare but may include fever, infection, bleeding, increased pain, or leg weakness. If the patient experiences these symptoms, they should report to the Southwest Spine and Pain Care Center. If it is after hours, they should report to the ER.