Minuteman Procedure

Minuteman is a minimally invasive, out-patient fusion.

It locks together the spinous processes of two vertebra in order to create stability. The result is to improve the space for the nerves in the spinal canal. It is innovative and can help patients with many diseases of the lumbar spine, most notably spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication. Minuteman helps these patients feel as good when they stand and walk as they do when sitting.

Please watch the video above to understand the technical aspects of the procedure, so you can discuss them with your Michigan Pain Specialists provider. Please understand this is a surgery and soreness from healing is normal, even for weeks after the surgery.

Minuteman - Post Operative Instructions:

Post Anesthesia:

If you received anesthesia/sedation for the remainder of the day you so you should NOT make critical decisions or sign any legal documents. You should NOT consume alcohol. You should NOT drive or operate heavy machinery.

Medications:
You may be prescribed a post-operative medications, if so take as instructed. If you are on a blood thinner speak with your doctor about when to resume.

Incision Care:

If there is a dressing, you may remove it on the morning after surgery BEFORE your shower. If Surgical Glue is used expect it will slowly peel off within 14 days. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as: redness, swelling or drainage at incision site, or temperature greater than 101°. (Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal)

Bathing:

You may shower after on the morning after surgery after removing the dressing; avoid scrubbing the incision site for the first 72 hours. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.

Restrictions:

For 2 weeks after surgery:

limit bending, lifting, twisting or any strenuous activity like running, golfing, tennis or sexual activity.
Avoid sudden movement

For 1 week after surgery:

No lifting greater than 5 lbs
Do not sit for more than 45 minutes at a time.

Exercise:

Increase your light activity, such as walking, as tolerated.

Diet:

Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.

Smoking:

Avoid smoking. Smoking decreases the rate of bone and skin healing and also interferes with the effectiveness of pain medication.

Driving:

You may drive the day after the procedure if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.

Follow-Up:

You may experience soreness from this procedure for up to 2 weeks. You will have a post-operative appointment approximately 14 days after surgery. If you have not already made your follow-up appointment, call your surgeons office to make one.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office triage line at 734-373-7246. If it is AFTER HOURS call the answering service at 734-572-7418.