Go The Minimally Invasive Way (The Business Times)

Dr Yue Wai Mun was interviewed by The Business Times on minimally invasive surgery for spinal conditions. Spinal surgery used to be quite a scary procedure for many. However, with new minimally invasive spine surgical techniques, large incisions that may damage muscles and nerves are no longer needed for spinal surgery.

Dr Yue says that the surgical work done is still the same in minimally invasive spinal surgery. The range of work includes treating slipped discs, removal of bone spurs, removal of diseased disc and stabilising the spine. Surgery has a faster recovery for slipped discs treatment, although many Asian patients still prefer more conservative treatment like physiotherapy and medication. Minimally invasive laminotomy surgery that uses finer instruments with lesser blood loss can be used for removal of bone spurs.

Minimally invasive spinal surgery halves the post-operation stay at the hospital. Patients can also expect to get up to walk or return to their daily routine much earlier.