Performing Expert Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery

Neurosurgery is a procedure to access the brain or spine to evaluate or repair neurological conditions. Compared to open surgery with a large incision, minimally invasive neurosurgery uses very small incisions, often resulting in less pain and scarring, a shorter stay, and a quicker recovery.

As experts in spine conditions, movement disorders, and more, Dignity Health neurosurgeons treat a wide range of brain, nerve, and spinal disorders with minimally invasive neurosurgery in the Bay Area. To find a neurosurgeon, use our search tool to Find a Doctor.

Why Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery is Performed

Your doctor may recommend neurosurgery if you or loved one has pain, disability, or risk of further problems caused by things such as spine disorders or tumors. Other brain and spine conditions that can be treated with neurosurgery include:

• Brain aneurysms
• Brain cysts and tumors
• Cushing’s disease
• Decompression of the spinal cord or spinal nerves
• Hydrocephalus
• Orthopedic spine conditions, including  herniated or ruptured spinal discs, bone spurs,  spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal arthritis
• Spinal cord tumors
•  Trigeminal neuralgia

Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery: What to Expect

Three common types of neurosurgery are:

• Endoscopic neurosurgery
• Microcraniotomy
• Minimally invasive cervical (upper back), thoracic (middle back), or lumbar (lower back) surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may either have general anesthesia or sedation, so you won’t feel any pain. With minimally invasive neurosurgery, you’ll likely spend less time in the hospital recovering. In some cases, you may be able to go home the same day after surgery.

Your Dignity Health doctor can go over the details of each procedure with you, including the benefits and risks, so you know what to expect and how to prepare. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible.

Neurosurgery Recovery

The main benefits of minimally invasive surgery may include less pain, less noticeable scars, and a faster recovery. Your recovery time depends on individual factors, including your age, overall health, and how extensive your procedure is. Your Dignity Health doctor will give you information on activity restrictions and any follow-up care you may need.