Spinal access is an important component of spinal fusion procedures. Spinal fusion is used to relieve pain through stabilization of a segment of the spine. A minimally invasive spinal fusion procedure joins two or more vertebrae together, creating a solid structure between them. The fusion stops or reduces movement which is causing pain, giving the patient some measure of relief. These procedures may be done on any section of the spine but are most commonly done on the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions. Spinal fusion is used to treat degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and other painful spinal conditions.

During minimally invasive spine surgery, bone material is grafted onto the spine using titanium cages (spacers) plates, rods, and screws. Spinal fusion may be done using a number of techniques. A posterior approach accesses the patient’s spine from the back. Anterior techniques access the patient’s spine from the front of the body, and lateral procedures access the spine from the side. There are multiple variations of oblique, anterior and lateral spinal ccess surgery techniques and some cases require the use of multiple methods to ensure the best outcome for the patient.

Dr. Masel partners with top surgeons in the Dallas area to give his patients the best possible care.