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:

Post Anesthesia:

If you received anesthesia/sedation today, for the remainder of the day 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:

Remove the outer dressing one day after the procedure. If used, surgical glue will come off within 14 days. If sutures were used and need removed, it will be done at your follow up appointment.

Please call us with any changes or concerns such as:

Redness
Swelling or drainage at the incision site
Temperature greater than 101
Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal

Bathing:

You may shower the day after surgery after removing your dressing. Do not apply lotions, medications or cream to the incision. Avoid scrubbing the incision site for 72 hours. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.

Restrictions:

For 2 week following surgery:

No Strenuous activit
No lifting greater than 10lbs

Limit long car rides (greater than 1 hour) for a few weeks, as tolerated.

Exercise:

Walking is the best exercise, daily walking is strongly recommended. Gradually increase the length and distance of your walks.

Diet:

Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.

Smoking:

No smoking. Smoking can affect the rate of bone and skin healing needed to heal from this surgery

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 feel sore after your procedure. If you feel extreme pain or discomfort contact your physician. 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.