Minimally invasive decompression procedures are indicated when spinal stenosis or disc herniations are causing painful or debilitating symptoms in the low back or legs and extensive non-operative management has failed to provide relief. The procedures are typically called a lamino-foraminotomy or a microdiscectomy depending on your pathology.

The techniques used will vary from patient to patient but often times will involve the use of a small incision and tubular retractor which maintains a small tunnel to the area where the problem exists in the spine. The pathology is then addressed with precise instruments under a microscope for enhanced visualization.

Watch the video below to see Dr. Ratnayake discuss the procedure in more detail.