Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression

Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD®) is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition that causes narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back.

The procedure removes small portions of thickened ligament tissue that are compressing the spinal nerves, helping to relieve pressure, reduce pain, and improve mobility—without the need for large incisions or implants.

It is performed through a tiny incision and is considered a safe and effective alternative to traditional back surgery.

What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?

The MILD® procedure is primarily used to treat:

Lumbar spinal stenosis
Neurogenic claudication (leg pain while walking or standing)
Chronic low back pain related to stenosis

How Does Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression Work?

In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal narrows due to thickened ligaments and degenerative changes.

A small incision is made in the lower back
Specialized instruments are used to remove excess ligament tissue
This creates more space in the spinal canal
Pressure on the spinal nerves is reduced

This helps restore normal nerve function and improve walking ability.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Imaging (MRI or CT scan) to confirm spinal stenosis
Review of symptoms and previous treatments

During the Procedure

Performed under local anesthesia with sedation
A tiny incision is made (about the size of a pencil tip)
Instruments are guided using fluoroscopy (X-ray)
Thickened ligament tissue is removed
Procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes

After the Procedure

Same-day discharge
Minimal discomfort at the incision site
Walking is encouraged soon after

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression

✔ No large incisions or implants
✔ Minimally invasive with low risk
✔ Short recovery time
✔ Improves walking and standing tolerance
✔ Reduces nerve compression without major surgery

Many patients report significant improvement in mobility and reduction in leg pain.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have lumbar spinal stenosis confirmed on imaging
Experience leg pain when standing or walking (neurogenic claudication)
Have not improved with medications or physical therapy
Want to avoid traditional back surgery

This procedure is often recommended for patients who are not ideal candidates for major surgery.

Risks & Side Effects

The MILD® procedure is generally safe, but potential risks include:

Mild soreness at the incision site
Infection or bleeding (rare)
Temporary increase in pain
Nerve irritation (rare)

Serious complications are uncommon.

When Is This Treatment Recommended?

Minimally invasive lumbar decompression is typically recommended when:

Conservative treatments have failed
Symptoms are consistent with spinal stenosis
Pain limits walking and daily activities
Patients want a less invasive alternative to surgery

👉 It is positioned as an intermediate-to-advanced treatment before open spine surgery

Recovery & Results

Most patients resume light activity within a few days
Improvement in symptoms may be gradual over weeks
Many patients experience better walking tolerance and reduced leg pain
Long-term results are often sustained

FAQs

Is the MILD procedure surgery?

No, it is considered a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure.

How quickly will I see results?

Some patients notice improvement within weeks, while others improve gradually.

Will I need physical therapy afterward?

Physical therapy may be recommended to maximize recovery.

Is the procedure permanent?

It provides long-lasting relief, though results vary depending on the condition.

Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.

Book an appointment here to learn more or call us at 913-339-9437 to schedule now.

Some Of The Other Surgical Procedures We Provide:

FAQs

How does spinal stenosis affect daily activities?

Spinal stenosis can make it difficult for patients to stand or walk for long periods, limiting mobility and daily functioning.

What benefits does the MILD procedure offer?

The procedure restores spinal space, reduces nerve compression, alleviates pain, and improves mobility.

Do patients go home the same day after the MILD procedure?

Yes, patients are expected to go home soon after the procedure is completed.

What symptoms indicate that I may be a candidate for the MILD procedure?

Symptoms include lower back pain that radiates down the legs and signs of lumbar spinal stenosis with ligamentum flavum hypertrophy greater than 2.5mm.

What conditions can the MILD procedure treat?

It treats lumbar spinal stenosis, bulging or herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease.