Minuteman (Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion)

The Minuteman® is a minimally invasive, interspinous-interlaminar fusion device intended for the fixation and stabilization of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine. While awaiting bony fusion to occur The Minuteman® is designed for attachment to the posterior non-cervical spine at the spinous processes through its bilateral locking plates, and it is intended for use with bone graft material placed within the device. It provides immobilization and stabilization of the spinal segments. The core threaded post allows for optimal placement and a wide range of sizes allows for enhanced anatomical fit. The Minuteman® is delivered sterile and individually packed.

During the procedure, a 1-inch incision is made on the side of your body, dilation is used to access the spine, and the Minuteman® is implanted with bone graft material. The lateral approach does not require dissection or stripping of the sensitive back muscles, bones or nerves.This advantageous approach may lead to a shorter operative time, less blood loss, reduced hospital stay, and a faster recovery time.

The Minuteman® procedure:

• Minimally invasive
• Reduced procedure time
• Same day, out-patient surgery
• Minimally tissue disruption
• Decreased blood loss
• 1-inch incision
• Supraspinous ligament and multifidus muscle remains intact
• Reduced risk of damaging nerves and blood vessels

Traditional Back Surgery:

• Significantly longer procedure time
• In-patient hospital stay (can be several days)
• Requires longer incision
• Ligaments, tendons, and muscles may be destroyed
• Increased risk of surgical complications (i.e. nerve damage)
• Increased blood loss

• Reduced procedure time
• Decreased blood loss
• Same day surgery
• 1-inch incision
• Little to no post-op pain
• Ability to place at L5-S1
• Minimally tissue disruption
• Supraspinous ligament remains intact
• Reduced risk of damaging nerves and blood vessels

The following questions will help determine if the Minuteman® System is right for you:

• Does your back or leg pain worsen with prolonged standing or walking?
• Does your back or leg pain improve while you are sitting?
• Does leaning forward improve your pain?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, Ask Dr. Roufaiel if the Minuteman Procedure may be right for you.

Please click here to learn about the Minuteman procedure.