If you’ve been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, you may be wondering about your surgical options. Dr. Grigory Goldberg, MD, of the Modern Spine Institute, our spine specialist in New Jersey, understands that spondylolisthesis treatment has evolved significantly with minimally invasive techniques. In this guide, we explain how these advanced approaches are transforming patient recovery.
What Is Spondylolisthesis, and When Does It Require Surgery?
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra beneath it. This displacement can compress spinal nerves and cause significant pain, numbness, or weakness. The condition may result from degenerative changes, stress fractures, congenital abnormalities, or trauma from accidents.
As reported by StatPearls, in the general adult population, the prevalence of spondylolysis ranges from 5% to 11.5%, while isthmic spondylolisthesis affects approximately 4% to 8% of individuals. According to research published in Orthopedic Reviews, this condition may be hereditary, with 15% to 70% of patients with spondylolysis also possessing first-degree relatives who have spondylolysis.
Most cases respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy and medications. Research in Physiopedia reports that roughly 10% to 15% of younger people with low-grade spondylolisthesis will need surgical treatment due to conservative treatment failure. Consider surgical intervention if you experience progressive vertebral slippage, spinal instability, or neurological dysfunction.
Understanding Spondylolisthesis Treatment With Minimally Invasive Techniques
Minimally invasive treatment for spondylolisthesis offers significant advantages over traditional open surgery. These advanced MIS techniques for lumbar spondylolisthesis use specialized instruments and smaller incisions to access the spine. Image-guided minimally invasive spine surgery for spondylolisthesis utilizes real-time imaging to ensure precise placement of surgical instruments and implants.
Benefits of Spondylolisthesis Surgery With Less Invasive Methods
When consulting a spine surgeon in New Jersey for the answer to “What is spondylolisthesis?” and how a spine specialist in New Jersey can help, you’ll learn that spondylolisthesis surgery with less invasive methods provides numerous advantages:
- Smaller incisions reduce tissue damage and scarring.
- Decreased blood loss during surgery minimizes transfusion risks.
- Less post-operative pain allows earlier mobilization.
- Reduced hospital stays and lower healthcare costs.
- Faster return to work and daily activities.
Spondylolisthesis treatment helps preserve more of the surrounding paraspinous muscles and posterior spinal structures, which are vital for long-term spinal stability and function.
Types of Procedures Available
Your spine specialist may recommend transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), which approaches the spine from the back to remove the damaged disc. Other options include posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), and lateral approaches.
Posterior and lateral minimally invasive approaches utilize specialized retractors or tubular instruments that create a working channel through the muscles rather than cutting through them. Anterior approaches access the spine through the abdomen without disrupting the posterior spinal muscles.
Modern techniques incorporate real-time fluoroscopy or navigation systems to enhance accuracy and safety during implant placement. Percutaneous pedicle screws provide additional stability while maintaining the integrity of surrounding soft tissues.
Some procedures combine decompression with fusion using morselized bone graft harvested from the surgical site, eliminating the need for separate donor sites. Your surgeon will discuss which approach best addresses your individual needs.
Get Expert Spondylolisthesis Treatment in New Jersey
Dr. Grigory Goldberg, MD, of the Modern Spine Institute, and staff specialize in advanced procedures that help you recover faster. We utilize the latest image-guided technology to ensure precise surgical outcomes. Learn more about minimally invasive versus traditional spine surgery to make an informed decision.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. Contact Dr. Grigory Goldberg, MD, of the Modern Spine Institute today at (844) 373-2772 in Clifton, NJ, or (732) 908-8585 in Toms River, NJ, to learn more about spondylolisthesis treatment throughout New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minimally Invasive Spondylolisthesis Treatment
Before undergoing any spinal procedure, patients often have questions about the treatment process. Review our responses to common patient questions below.
What Are the Benefits of Spondylolisthesis Treatment With Minimally Invasive Methods?
Minimally invasive approaches cause less muscle damage, result in smaller scars, reduce post-operative pain, and allow faster return to normal activities.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Most patients begin walking within hours of surgery and return home within one to three days. Full recovery typically takes six to 12 weeks.
Will I Need To Wear a Back Brace After Surgery?
Your surgeon may prescribe a lumbar brace for additional support during the initial healing phase. The duration varies based on your procedure.
Can Minimally Invasive Surgery Correct All Grades?
Minimally invasive techniques can effectively treat most cases of Grade I and Grade II spondylolisthesis.
