Minimally Invasive Spine

Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)

A same-day procedure that removes portions of thickened spinal ligament to relieve nerve compression, without implants or general anesthesia.

Minimally

Category

Outpatient

Procedure

Non-Opioid

Approach

Image-Guided

Precision

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Procedure Overview

That specific pattern, leg pain with activity that improves with rest or bending, is a hallmark of lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication. It is caused by a thickened ligament inside the spinal canal compressing the nerve roots. For many patients, the thickened ligamentum flavum is the primary culprit, and it can be addressed directly without implants or general anesthesia.

Clinical Data

Published randomized clinical trial data reports 75% of patients achieve significant improvement in function and pain, with durable results sustained at 2 years. The complication rate is comparable to that of a lumbar epidural steroid injection. (Source to be confirmed by SCOPES Health clinical team.)

Treatment Purpose

MILD is a same-day outpatient procedure that removes small portions of the thickened ligamentum flavum through a tiny incision using specialized tools. By removing the thickened tissue, space is restored inside the spinal canal and nerve compression is relieved. No implants are used. No general anesthesia is required.

Appropriate Conditions

Lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication
Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy
Back and leg pain worsened by standing or walking
Symptoms that improve with sitting or bending forward

Patient Considerations

MILD is specifically designed as an alternative to open decompression surgery. There is no general anesthesia, no fusion, and no overnight hospital stay. The procedure takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes under local anesthesia with mild sedation. Most patients walk the same day.

Treatment Process

The procedure takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes under local anesthesia with mild sedation. A tiny incision is made and specialized tools remove small portions of the thickened ligamentum flavum under fluoroscopic guidance. You go home the same day. Most patients walk the same day and return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a suitable candidate?

Patients with confirmed lumbar stenosis, neurogenic claudication symptoms, and ligamentum flavum thickening on MRI who have not responded adequately to conservative treatments.

How quickly will I recover?

Most patients walk the same day. Normal activities are typically resumed within 1 to 2 weeks.

What are the risks?

Very low complication rate. Risks include infection, bleeding, or dural puncture, all of which are rare.

Need Guidance?

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Every care plan is based on your diagnosis, your symptoms, and your goals.

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