Through the same incision, the surgeon can swing the endoscope to decompress the level immediately above and below as well. Overall when compared to traditional open procedures, the MEL technique offers the attractive benefits of far less disruption of normal tissue, faster surgical time, decreased post-operative discomfort, quicker recovery time, and a typically more rapid return to normal activity. You should contact your surgeon to find out if the MEL operation is available in your area and whether or not you are a candidate for the procedure. Your Recovery You will be asleep during surgery under general anesthesia. After surgery you will be taken to the recovery area where you will be monitored until you awaken.
Most patients can begin getting out of bed on the same day surgery is performed.
However, these time frames may be longer depending on the extent your surgery. Your neurosurgeon may also prescribe a course of physical therapy to help you regain strength in your abdomen and back and promote a better recovery. The total recovery time after lumbar surgery can take anywhere from eight weeks to six months, depending on the severity of your condition before surgery as well as your overall health condition prior to surgery. Common sense tells you the healthier you are the quicker you will heal. As smoking weakens bones, accelerate degeneration and slows the healing process, we also highly recommend you stop before any type of surgical procedure.