The procedure for minimally invasive surgery consists of several small incisions (only a few millimeters long). Next, your surgeon will insert a small endoscope (a long, thin tube with a camera and light on the end) through one of the incisions. The endoscope displays the entire procedure on a large video screen to help your surgeon clearly ‘see inside your body.’ Once the endoscope is in place, your surgeon inserts small surgical tools through the other incisions. The instruments are so small that the surgeon operates the tools by remote control. When complete, the surgeon removes all the devices. Your incisions often do not require more than bandages to heal, and the risk of infection is minimal.
Recovery time after minimally invasive surgery is typically three times faster than traditional open surgery.
The recovery time for each patient can vary as it depends on the size and complexity of the procedure; however, it is often much shorter than traditional surgery.
Hospital Stay
The average hospital stay for minimally invasive surgery is substantially less than traditional surgery. For instance, the average hospital stay for someone who has recently had a minimally invasive spine surgery is less than 2 days compared to open spine surgery of 3 to 4 days. Depending on the type of surgery, for many, minimally invasive procedures are out-patient surgery where patients can return home the same day.
Minimally invasive surgery can cost thousands less than traditional surgery due to reduced hospital time, medications, and follow-up care. For most, surgery costs depend upon the complexity and severity of your medical condition. Additional fees may include anesthesia, hospitalization, physical therapy, and medications.
Costs with Insurance
Although your insurance provider likely covers the cost of most rehabilitative procedures, most elective procedures are not covered by insurance. Contact your insurance provider for coverage details. Please ask our office administration about financing and payment options.
