mild® Procedure
Minimally invasive lumbar decompression (mild®) is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive treatment option for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, which often leads to pain, numbness, tingling, or heaviness in the lower back, legs, or buttocks when standing or walking.
By creating more space in the spinal canal, mild® can help alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life.
How Does mild® work?
mild® relieves pressure on the spinal canal by removing small pieces of bone and thickened ligament tissue. Using specialized tools through a tiny incision, the procedure restores space in the spinal canal to improve mobility and reduce pain. It’s performed under imaging guidance for precision and safety, providing relief without the need for major surgery.
Who is a candidate for mild®?
Candidates for mild® are individuals diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis who have not found sufficient relief from conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections but wish to avoid major surgery. Patients should have mobility issues and pain related to spinal canal narrowing that affect daily activities.
What are the benefits of mild®?
mild® offers a range of benefits, including:
Minimally invasive approach with no implants or general anesthesia. The incision is only 5.1 mm, reducing recovery time and discomfort.
Outpatient procedure with quick recovery time. Most patients can return to normal activities within 24 hours after the procedure. Patients can go home the same day, and the procedure typically takes less than an hour.
Significant and lasting pain relief. mild® removes small pieces of bone and ligament to restore space in the spinal canal and relieve nerve compression.
Improved mobility and ability to stand and walk longer distances
Lower risk compared to traditional spine surgery
Covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans nationwide, regardless of age or plan type
What happens during the mild® procedure?
The procedure is performed through a small incision in the lower back. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the doctor inserts specialized tools to carefully remove small amounts of bone and ligament tissue that are compressing the spinal canal. The incision is then closed with a small bandage, and no stitches are required.
How long does the mild® procedure take?
The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Since mild® is an outpatient procedure, most patients can go home the same day.
What are the side effects of mild®?
Side effects are usually mild and may include temporary soreness or stiffness at the treatment site. In rare cases, patients may experience minor bleeding, infection, or nerve irritation. Serious complications are uncommon.
Is the procedure painful?
mild® is generally well-tolerated. Patients receive local anesthesia and may feel pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but pain is minimal compared to traditional surgery.
How long does the effect last?
Many patients experience significant, long-lasting relief. Clinical studies have shown that the benefits of mild® can last for years, helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life without the need for more invasive surgery.