What is a MILD® Procedure?
MILD®️, also known as minimally invasive lumbar decompression, is a safe, effective procedure capable of providing significant pain relief to patients suffering from Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord and causing various issues such as lower back pain, weakness and tingling in a foot or leg, and burning sensation in the leg and buttocks. While spinal stenosis can occur anywhere along the spine, it is more common in the lumbar region, also known as the lower back.
The most common cause of lumbar spinal stenosis is the natural wear and tear that occurs to our bones and joints as we age. This is why this condition is most common among people over the age of 50. Depending on how advanced the spinal stenosis is, people report a range of symptoms from none to severe. The symptoms of this condition tend to develop gradually, and they can worsen over time. Patients who receive the MILD®️ treatment report experiencing a significant reduction in pain and an increase in their mobility.
How Does a MILD® Procedure Work?
After making a small incision in the back, and with the aid of fluoroscopy, your physician will insert a specialized medical instrument known as a port along your back to reach the ligamentum flavum and remove any excess bone fragments and ligament tissue from your spinal canal. This treatment reduces the compression on your nerves, decreasing pain and restoring mobility. There are many advantages to the MILD®️ procedure, the most important being:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Does not require stitches/sutures
- Only local anesthetics needed
- Usually performed in under an hour
- Same-day surgery with no hospital time
- Rapid recovery
- No implants used
Following the procedure, you should be able to return home the same day without any issues. The recovery period is minimal, meaning you can resume normal activities within a few days. Most patients notice a significant increase in their physical abilities after 24 hours after the procedure.
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How to Prepare for a MILD® Procedure
A series of tests may be necessary in order to determine your eligibility to receive a MILD®️ procedure. The first step is an evaluation to confirm the presence of lumbar spinal stenosis. To do this, your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history. The following tests may also be recommended:
- Blood work
- CT & MRI scans
- Spinal x-rays
- Diagnostic imaging
If you or anyone you know is experiencing lumbar spinal stenosis symptoms, we recommend you reach out to our team today. You may be an excellent candidate to receive this procedure. Our expert interventional pain specialists possess decades of experience in pain management and treatment. We would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition and the treatment options we offer.
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