The Minuteman® is an interspinous-interlaminar fusion device placed between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae to stabilize a painful segment of the lower or mid spine. It is inserted through a small incision from the side of the back, without muscle stripping, pedicle screws or the larger exposure that traditional posterior fusion requires. It is used for back and leg pain from instability, spondylolisthesis and stenosis in patients who want to avoid open fusion or are not candidates for it. Spine Institute of North America (Spine INA) in East Brunswick, New Jersey offers the Minuteman procedure for selected patients.
The Minuteman® back procedure is an innovative new way to treat back pain. During this minimally invasive procedure, your doctor will position an interspinous-interlaminar fusion device onto your spine. The apparatus stabilizes the spine to prevent pain.
These low-profile devices are available in various sizes, between 8mm and 16mm, so your doctor can ensure you receive the best treatment for your body. Request a consultation with the Spine INA to see if the Minuteman back procedure is right for you.
How Does the Minuteman® Procedure Work?
The Minuteman® procedure stops back and leg pain by stabilizing vertebrae on the noncervical portion of the spine that would otherwise shift and cause discomfort. Unlike other treatment procedures, the Minuteman procedure is fast and minimally invasive.
To install the minuteman device, you’ll lay flat on your stomach, and your doctor will make a small incision from the side of your back to access the posterior spinous processes along your lower spine. The device attaches to the spinous processes where its threads, locking plates and bone graft material will fuse to the vertebrae. That portion of the spine will be locked in place, preventing the spondylolisthesis that causes your pain.
The entire Minuteman treatment process takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Patients can go home the same day, and most experience pain relief in one to two weeks.