Back pain can change everything about your daily life—how you move, sleep, and even the activities you enjoy. When nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections no longer bring relief, surgery may be the next step.

For many patients, minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) offers a way to treat the root of the problem while reducing the impact on surrounding tissues. At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, NC, we provide a private outpatient environment for select spine procedures, performed only after referral from your physician.

Less disruption, less downtime—here’s what patients should know before considering minimally invasive spine surgery.

What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Traditional open spine surgery requires large incisions and extensive muscle retraction to access the spinal column. By contrast, MISS relies on smaller incisions—often less than one inch—specialized instruments, and advanced imaging guidance to target the problem area with precision.

Conditions that may be treated with minimally invasive techniques include:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Certain fractures or spinal instability issues

By minimizing disruption to muscles and ligaments, MISS aims to relieve pain, restore mobility, and shorten overall recovery times.

Learn how minimally invasive techniques differ from open spine surgery from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

Benefits of a Minimally Invasive Approach

The biggest advantage of MISS is reduced impact on the body compared to traditional surgery. Patients often experience:

• Faster recovery times thanks to less muscle damage
• Smaller incisions that lower the risk of infection and blood loss
• Less post-operative pain, often meaning fewer narcotic prescriptions
• Earlier mobility, with many patients walking the same day as surgery

For the right candidates, this approach can mean returning to work, exercise, or everyday activities weeks sooner than with open surgery.

Explore the types of spine procedures performed at our Granite Falls outpatient surgery center.

When Minimally Invasive Surgery Might Be an Option

Not every patient is a candidate for MISS. Typically, your provider may recommend surgery when:

• Conservative treatments (therapy, medications, injections) haven’t worked
• Imaging confirms a specific problem that can be addressed surgically
• Your health allows outpatient care, meaning you can safely return home the same day

In some cases, like complex deformities or multi-level spinal problems, traditional open surgery may still be required. That decision is made by your surgeon during consultation and referral.

The Outpatient Spine Surgery Experience at Prime

At Prime Surgical Suites, minimally invasive spine surgery is performed in a fully equipped, licensed outpatient surgical center. Patients benefit from:

• Same-day discharge with no overnight hospital stay
• Streamlined scheduling, often faster than large hospital systems
• A private, patient-focused environment, with personalized anesthesia care
• Lower exposure to hospital-acquired infections

This outpatient model blends advanced technology with comfort, giving patients a specialized alternative for certain procedures.

See how our modern surgical suites are designed for patient comfort and recovery.

Recovery and Results

While recovery varies by procedure, most patients are able to resume light activities within just a few days. Normal routines and exercise often follow within weeks rather than months. Your provider may also recommend post-operative physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility.

It’s important to set realistic expectations—relief can begin within days, but full healing may take time depending on your condition and overall health.

The Cleveland Clinic outlines typical recovery timelines after minimally invasive spine surgery.

FAQs: Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Prime

Q: Can I come to Prime without a referral?

No. Prime Surgical Suites only accepts patients through physician referrals to ensure you are the right candidate for outpatient care.

Q: Will I be awake during surgery?

MISS is generally performed under general anesthesia or light sedation. Your anesthesia team will review all options with you.

Q: How soon will I feel relief?

Many patients notice improvement within days, though full recovery can take several weeks or months.

Q: Is minimally invasive surgery always better than open surgery?

Not always. Some spinal conditions require traditional approaches for safety and effectiveness. Your surgeon will determine the best option for you.

Your Next Step Toward Relief

If you’ve been living with persistent back pain, minimally invasive spine surgery in NC may offer a path to relief with less downtime. At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, we provide a modern outpatient environment for spine procedures, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency every step of the way.

Talk to your provider about whether you’re a candidate for referral to Prime Surgical Suites for outpatient spine surgery.