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mild® Procedure
mild® is a minimally invasive, out-patient procedure that requires no general anesthesia or implants. This procedure can restore space in the spinal canal to decrease nerve compression, which can reduce pain and restore mobility. You may be a candidate for this procedure if you’ve been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis.
Using real-time X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) your doctor, who is certified to perform mild®, will use specialized tools to remove small pieces of bone and excess ligament tissue through a tiny incision in your back.
Some patients that are candidates for open surgical decompression may not be candidates for the mild® procedure due to the severity of their condition. Talk to your doctor about what treatment option is best for you. Since mild® does not change the structural stability of the spine, open surgery can still be performed if necessary.
mild® has a short recovery period and patients go home the same day.
After the mild® procedure, most patients are able to resume light tasks and everyday activities within just a few days.
This is generally a safe procedure. But, as with any interventional procedure, it carries a small risk of potential complications such as bleeding, infection, spinal headache, and injury to blood vessels or nerves around the spine.
mild® Post-op Instructions
Incision Care: If there is a dressing, you may remove it on the morning after surgery BEFORE you shower. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as:
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redness
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swelling or drainage at incision site
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temperature greater than 101°
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Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal
Bathing: You may shower the morning after surgery; avoid scrubbing the incision site for the first 3 days.
Restrictions:
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No strenuous activity
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No lifting greater than 10lbs
Exercise: Increase your light activity each day, such as walking, as tolerated.
Driving: You may drive 3 days after the procedure if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.
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.
Follow-Up: You may experience soreness in your back for up to 2 weeks. Take your pain medication as prescribed and use ice packs as needed. You will have a post-operative appointment 7-10 days after surgery for suture removal and wound check.