With over 18 years of distinguished clinical experience, Dr. Vijita Jayan is a highly accomplished Clinical Director and Rehabilitation Specialist, renowned for her expertise in neuro-rehabilitation, functional recovery, and mobility-dependent case management. Her extensive practical knowledge enables her to design and implement individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation protocols that consistently yield measurable patient outcomes. A prolific researcher and academic writer, she has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and research papers, significantly advancing the field of rehabilitative medicine. The recipient of multiple prestigious accolades, Dr. Jayan is widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, continually shaping neuro-rehabilitative care through research, innovation, and clinical excellence.

Reviewer

⁠Dr Rakesh Kumar Dua

Spine & Neurosurgeon

25 Years of Experience

Last Reviewed - June 2026

Dr. Rakesh Dua has more than 25+ years of clinical experience in spine surgeries. He is currently providing his services as Director, Neuro & Spine Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. Before joining Fortis Hospital, he was associated with Max super-specialist Hospital, Shalimar Bagh as Director Neurosurgery & Head Neuro Spine, and with UCMS & GTB hospital as head of the neurosurgery department.

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Keyhole spine surgery, also known as minimally invasive spine surgery, is a modern technique that treats spinal conditions through small incisions. It uses specialised tools and real-time imaging to access the spine with minimal disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues.

This procedure is commonly used for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression. Patients typically experience less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Keyhole spine surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and often requires only a few stitches. It offers a safer alternative with excellent long-term outcomes when performed by experienced spine surgeons.

Keyhole spine surgery, also known as minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), is performed to treat various spinal conditions with reduced trauma to muscles and tissues. It is often used to address herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spinal instability, degenerative disc disease, or to remove tumours and infections. The procedure minimises incision size and recovery time while aiming to relieve chronic back pain, leg pain, or nerve compression. It may also be recommended when conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications have failed to provide relief.

You should consult a spine specialist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Persistent or worsening back or neck pain
Radiating pain into the arms or legs
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in limbs
Difficulty walking or balancing
Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency)

These may signal severe spinal conditions that may require imaging studies and possibly surgical intervention, such as keyhole spine surgery.

Preparation typically includes:

A detailed physical examination
MRI, CT scans, or X-rays to localise the spinal issue
Review of current medications, especially blood thinners, which may need to be paused
Fasting for 6\u20138 hours before the procedure if general anaesthesia is used
Discuss allergies, medical history, and potential surgical risks with your doctor

Patients should also arrange for someone to assist them post-surgery and during recovery.

Incision & Access: A small incision (usually less than 1 inch) is made. Surgeons use a tubular retractor to create a channel to the spine without cutting large muscles.
Microscopic Tools: With the aid of a surgical microscope or endoscope, the surgeon visualises the spinal structures.
Treatment: Damaged discs, bone spurs, or other problematic tissues are removed or repaired.
Closure: Once completed, the incision is closed with minimal sutures or skin adhesive, and a small bandage is applied to the area.

This technique is highly targeted and avoids significant disruption to surrounding tissues.

Keyhole spine surgery typically lasts between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity and the area being treated. Patients may be discharged the same day or after a brief hospital stay.

While generally safe, potential risks include:

Need for further surgery (rare)

Smaller incisions and less muscle damage
Shorter hospital stay (often outpatient)
Reduced pain and faster recovery
Lower infection risk
Minimal blood loss
Improved mobility and function
High satisfaction rates among patients

MISS has revolutionised spinal care by making treatment safer, faster, and more efficient.

After the procedure:

Patients are monitored for a few hours or overnight
Mild discomfort or soreness around the incision site is common
Most can walk the same day
Return to light activities within 1\u20132 weeks
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4\u20136 weeks
Follow-up appointments and physical therapy may be recommended to optimise recovery

Following your surgeon\u2019s instructions is key to a smooth and successful recovery.

Keyhole spine surgery has a high success rate, often exceeding 90\u201395%, especially for targeted conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis. It effectively reduces pain, improves nerve function, and enhances quality of life with minimal risk and downtime.

90-97%

Pain relief and improved function

1-3 days

Typical recovery period before resuming normal daily activities

2-6 months

Initial neurological recovery and rehabilitation period

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Quironsalud Torrevieja Hospital

Torrevieja, Spain

119+ Beds · 238+ Procedures

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Process Involved for Keyhole Spine Surgery in Torrevieja

Initial Evaluation and Diagnosis

The doctor reviews your symptoms and performs physical exams and spinal imaging.
Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, provide detailed views to identify the specific area and cause of the spinal problem.

Detailed Consultation and Counselling

The surgical process, risks, expected benefits, and outcomes are clearly explained.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions and provide consent only after they have a complete understanding.

Preoperative Guidelines

You may be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the surgery to prepare for anaesthesia.
Certain medications may need to be adjusted, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications.

Hospital Admission and Preparation

Depending on the patient's condition and hospital protocol, admission may occur either on the day of surgery or one day prior.
Basic tests are performed, and the surgical area is prepared and marked.

Anaesthesia and Positioning

General anaesthesia is administered so you are unconscious and pain-free.
The body is gently positioned to allow safe and accurate surgical access.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Technique

A small incision is made near the affected spine segment.
Special instruments and a microscope or endoscope are used to navigate safely.

Targeted Treatment of the Problem Area

The damaged disc, compressed nerve, or bone fragment is removed or repaired.
In some cases, spinal fusion or support devices may be placed to stabilise the spine.

Closing the Incision and Recovery Room Transfer

The incision is closed using sutures or skin glue for faster healing.
You’re moved to a recovery area where vital signs are continuously monitored.

Post-Surgery Observation and Pain Control

Pain relief is provided through oral or IV medication as needed.
Early movement is encouraged, and most patients start walking the same day.

Safe Discharge and Home Recovery Plan

Patients are usually discharged within 24 to 48 hours if stable.
Detailed instructions on activity limits, medications, and wound care are given.

Follow-Up and Rehabilitation Support

Scheduled follow-ups help track healing progress and prevent complications.
Physiotherapy may be recommended to restore strength and spinal mobility.

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Bulging or Slipped Disc: When spinal discs push out of place and irritate nearby nerves.
Narrow Spinal Canal (Spinal Stenosis): Causes nerve compression and pain due to reduced space in the spine.
Nerve Root Compression (Sciatica): Causes sharp or burning pain that radiates down the leg, typically due to irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Worn-Out Discs (Degenerative Disc Disease): Discs lose cushioning over time, leading to discomfort and reduced movement.
Vertebral Slippage (Spondylolisthesis): Occurs when one vertebra shifts forward over another, affecting spinal stability.
Minor Spinal Fractures: Fractures from injury or weak bones that can be stabilised through minimally invasive techniques.
Unstable Spine Segments: Unnatural motion between vertebrae that leads to chronic back pain or nerve issues.
Nerve Entrapment: When surrounding tissues or discs press on a spinal nerve, causing pain or numbness.
Select Non-Cancerous Tumours: Small, non-aggressive spine tumours may be removed using a keyhole approach.

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Initial Assessment: A thorough medical evaluation is conducted, including physical exams and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, to confirm the need for surgery.
Pre-Surgical Preparation: The patient receives guidance on when to stop eating and drinking, how to manage current medications, and details about the hospital admission process. The type of anaesthesia and possible surgical risks are also clearly explained beforehand.
Anaesthesia and Positioning: The patient is placed under general anaesthesia and carefully positioned—usually face down—for safe and accurate access to the spine.
Creating a Small Incision: A tiny cut (usually under 2 cm) is made on the back. Muscles are gently moved aside using special instruments without cutting them.
Using a Microscope or Endoscope: A camera or microscope is inserted to provide a clear, magnified view of the spine, helping the surgeon operate with great precision.
Surgical Correction: The damaged part—like a slipped disc or bone spur—is removed or repaired using specialised tools inserted through the same small opening.
Wound Closure: Once the procedure is complete, the small cut is sealed using either surgical glue or a single stitch, followed by the application of a light dressing to protect the area.
Post-Surgery Monitoring: The patient is observed in a recovery room and discharged within 1–3 days. Follow-up care typically includes medication, exercise guidance, and, in some cases, physical therapy.

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Discectomy
Laminectomy
Foraminotomy
Fusion
Vertebroplasty
Kyphoplasty
Decompression
Stabilisation
Corpectomy (in select cases)
Nucleoplasty

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Smaller Incision: Less cutting means reduced scarring and faster healing.
Less Pain: Minimal tissue damage leads to lower pain levels after surgery.
Faster Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities much sooner than with open surgery.
Shorter Hospital Stay: Many can go home within 1–3 days.
Lower Risk of Infection: Smaller wounds reduce the chance of postoperative infections.
Preserves Muscle Strength: Muscles are gently moved aside, rather than cut, which helps maintain mobility.
Less Blood Loss: The minimally invasive technique helps reduce bleeding during surgery.
Better Precision: Surgeons use high-definition cameras or microscopes for improved accuracy.

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