Breaking New Ground: Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explains Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis—a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal—affects millions of people, especially older adults. This narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness, often severely impacting quality of life. While traditional open spine surgery has long been a treatment option, recent advances in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) are transforming how spinal stenosis is managed.
According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a pain management specialist with deep expertise in spinal conditions, minimally invasive techniques offer patients faster recovery, less pain, and fewer complications—without compromising effectiveness.
In this article, Dr. Sudberg walks us through what minimally invasive spine surgery for spinal stenosis entails, who is a candidate, and what patients can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow, usually due to age-related wear and tear, arthritis, or herniated discs. This narrowing can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing symptoms such as:
- Lower back or neck pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty walking or balancing
When symptoms significantly affect daily activities and don’t improve with conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications, surgery may be considered.
Traditional Surgery vs. Minimally Invasive Techniques
Traditional spine surgery for stenosis involves large incisions to expose the spine, which can lead to considerable muscle damage, blood loss, and prolonged recovery times.
Minimally invasive spine surgery, by contrast, uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to access the spine with less disruption to surrounding tissues.
Dr. Jordan Sudberg explains, “MISS is a game-changer because it reduces surgical trauma. The goal is to decompress the nerves and relieve pain while preserving as much of the natural anatomy as possible.”
How Does Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Work?
During the procedure, surgeons use tiny incisions—sometimes less than an inch long—and advanced imaging technology to guide instruments precisely to the affected area.
Techniques may include:
- Microsurgical decompression, where small amounts of bone or ligament are removed to relieve nerve pressure
- Endoscopic spine surgery, using a camera-equipped tube for visualization
- Laser-assisted procedures to target specific tissues
These approaches limit muscle injury, reduce scarring, and lower infection risk.
Who Is a Candidate for Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Not all patients with spinal stenosis qualify for minimally invasive surgery. According to Dr. Sudberg, candidates typically have:
- Moderate to severe stenosis causing nerve compression
- Symptoms like leg pain, numbness, or weakness that don’t respond to conservative care
- No extensive spinal instability or deformity requiring complex reconstruction
“A thorough evaluation—including imaging, physical exams, and patient history—is essential to determine if MISS is appropriate,” says Dr. Sudberg.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Dr. Jordan Sudberg highlights several advantages of MISS for spinal stenosis:
- Less post-operative pain: Smaller incisions and reduced muscle trauma mean patients often need less pain medication after surgery.
- Shorter hospital stays: Many patients can go home the same day or after just one night.
- Faster recovery: Patients typically return to normal activities weeks earlier compared to traditional surgery.
- Reduced risk of complications: Including infections and blood loss.
- Better cosmetic outcomes: Smaller scars are less noticeable.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the individual and extent of surgery, but Dr. Sudberg encourages patients to follow post-op protocols closely, including:
- Gradual reintroduction of activity under guidance
- Physical therapy focused on strengthening and flexibility
- Regular follow-ups to monitor healing and symptom improvement
“Patient engagement is critical,” notes Dr. Sudberg. “MISS offers a faster recovery, but it still requires dedication to rehabilitation.”
The Role of Pain Management Post-Surgery
Even with minimally invasive techniques, some patients experience residual discomfort during healing. Dr. Jordan Sudberg, as a pain management specialist, often partners with surgeons to optimize pain control through:
- Medications tailored to individual needs
- Nerve blocks or injections if appropriate
- Non-pharmacological approaches such as acupuncture or TENS therapy
Effective pain management supports faster recovery and improves patient outcomes.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Spinal Stenosis Care
Minimally invasive spine surgery is revolutionizing treatment for spinal stenosis by minimizing trauma and maximizing recovery. As Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes, “It’s important for patients to be informed and work with a care team experienced in these advanced techniques to achieve the best results.”
If you or a loved one struggles with spinal stenosis symptoms affecting daily life, consult a specialist to explore if minimally invasive options are right for you.
