Minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS)

An alternative to open Spinal surgery

A procedure that targets conditions within the spine through the use of keyhole surgery

About MISS

Thoracoscopy, laparoscopically and endoscopic are all terms used to describe a range of minimally invasive approaches to spinal surgery.

Your consultant may recommend minimally invasive spinal surgery if they think you could benefit from a minimally invasive procedure rather than open surgery.

Depending on the condition being treated, MISS may only require a cut of approximately two to five centimetres on your back. This can help to reduce pain after surgery and speed up your recovery.

Need to know

  • What happens during minimally invasive spinal surgery? icon plus

    Before your operation, your surgeon will talk to you about which procedure is most suitable for you. Our experienced spinal consultants use the latest surgical techniques and most advanced technology to help minimise damage to muscles, ligaments and soft tissues.

    Your procedure will be done under a general anaesthetic.
  • How to prepare icon plus

    Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They will let you know what you need to do to prepare, including how long you may need to avoid eating and drinking beforehand.

    Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
  • After your surgery icon plus

    Depending on your specific procedure, you are likely to remain in hospital for between one day and a week. This will depend on your general fitness level and the type of operation you've had.

    Our dedicated rehabilitation team will help you throughout your recovery, and your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.

Paying for medical treatment

You don’t need health insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.

Our spinal consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, including spinal neurosurgeons and orthopaedic spinal surgeons, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional spinal care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Request a spinal appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced spinal consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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