M.I.L.D. (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression)

What is M.I.L.D.?

MILD stands for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression. It is used to treat patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerves for the lumbar spine. Symptoms can include pain and numbness in the low back and into the legs with reduced ability to stand and walk. Lumbar Stenosis may be the result of aging and degeneration of the spine as well as increased bone growth and thickening of the spinal ligaments. MILD is a safe minimally invasive treatment that is a new therapeutic option to relieve pressure on the spine (lumbar decompression). It can help reduce lower back and leg pain and increase mobility for those patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). MILD spine surgery is image-guided so the doctor can visually see the treatment field. The procedure is performed using specialized mild devices and a local anesthetic with conscious (‘awake’ or ‘light’ as opposed to ‘general’) sedation.