lumbar spinal stenosis
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)
Chronic lower back and leg pain caused by spinal stenosis can make everyday activities like walking, standing, or even sleeping extremely difficult. Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) is an advanced outpatient procedure designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves and restore mobility—without the need for major surgery.
What Is the MILD Procedure?
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) is a percutaneous (through-the-skin) procedure used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis caused by thickened spinal ligaments, particularly the ligamentum flavum. This thickening narrows the spinal canal and compresses the nerves, leading to pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking.
The MILD procedure removes small portions of this excess ligament tissue to create more space in the spinal canal, relieving nerve compression and improving blood flow. Unlike traditional spine surgery, MILD does not involve large incisions, implants, or bone removal.Conditions Treated with MILD
The MILD procedure is most commonly used to treat:● Lumbar spinal stenosis● Neurogenic claudication (leg pain or weakness when walking or standing)● Chronic lower back pain● Leg pain, numbness, or tingling● Difficulty standing upright or walking long distances
It is typically recommended for patients who have not responded to physical therapy, medications, or epidural steroid injections.How Does the MILD Procedure Work?
The MILD procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. It is done under local anesthesia and mild sedation for comfort.
Using advanced imaging guidance, the physician inserts specialized instruments through a tiny incision in the lower back. Small pieces of thickened ligament tissue are then carefully removed to decompress the spinal canal and reduce pressure on the affected nerves.
Because no hardware or stitches are required, the procedure causes minimal disruption to surrounding tissues and allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional back surgery.Benefits of Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression
The MILD procedure offers many advantages, including:● Minimally invasive with no large incisions● No general anesthesia required● No implants or hardware● Short procedure time● Rapid recovery and same-day discharge● Improved walking ability and standing tolerance● Reduced back and leg pain● Lower risk compared to open spine surgeryMany patients experience noticeable improvements in pain and mobility within days to weeks following the procedure.