WELCOME TO THE MINUTEMAN® PATIENT RESOURCE CENTER

Traditional Spinal Fusions Are Highly Invasive and Require Months of Recovery. The Minuteman® spinal fusion procedure is a much better alternative for many patients.

DOES THIS SOUND LIKE YOU?

HAVE YOU BEEN DIAGNOZED WITH ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS?

Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs and/or back.
Pain that worsens with specific movements or positions, such as bending or twisting.
Can hardly walk or run like you used to because of the severe back pain.
Even walking to the bathroom and back or to the kitchen and back makes your back pain flare up.

Trouble sleeping and getting a good night's rest because you're back is in constant pain.
Back pain that worsens when standing and walking, but you can get positional relief when leaning forward or sitting down.
Your quality of life is getting worse and worse because you can't even do the normal day-to-day activities without constant back pain.
You've tried other treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic, or steroid injections without long-term relief.

HAVE YOU BEEN DIAGNOZED WITH ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS?

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

The narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back (lumbar spine). This narrowing can cause compression of the spinal cord itself or the nerve roots that branch off from the spinal cord.

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Changes in the spinal discs in the lower back as a result of the aging process, wear and tear, or due to injury. Spinal discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, and with time, they may lose hydration, flexibility, and their ability to cushion the spine effectively.

Spinal Instability

The bones and joints aren’t staying in place like they should, and might move too much or in abnormal ways. Often, one of the vertebrae slips forward over the bone directly beneath it. This can occur for various reasons, including congenital defects, stress fractures (usually seen in athletes), or degenerative changes in the spine (common in older adults).

Neurogenic Intermittent Claudication

A condition where you feel pain, weakness, or tingling in your legs and lower back when you stand or walk. The discomfort usually gets better when you sit down or bend forward. This happens because there's not enough space for the nerves in your lower back, and they get squeezed, especially when you're upright.

BACK PAIN IS FIXABLE FOR MANY PATIENTS

A diagnosis like the ones mentioned above don't have to limit your happiness and activity level.

BACK PAIN IS FIXABLE FOR MANY PATIENTS

A diagnosis like the ones mentioned above don't have to limit your happiness and activity level.

Minuteman® is a minimally invasive spinal fusion that often provides equal, if not better results compared to a traditional open lumbar fusion procedure.

LET'S COMPARE

*These comparisons are only estimates, and are not guaranteed in any way as results vary by patient.

Standard Spinal Fusion

~ 6 Month Recovery
Large Incision on Back
Long Procedure Time
In-patient Hospital Stay (Often several Days)
Higher Blood Loss
Higher Risk of Ligament/Muscle/Tendon Damage
Higher Risk of Neural & Vascular Damage

~ 6 Month Recovery
Large Incision on Back
Long Procedure Time
In-patient Hospital Stay (Often several Days)
Higher Blood Loss
Higher Risk of Ligament/Muscle/Tendon Damage
Higher Risk of Neural & Vascular Damage

Minuteman® Fusion

Minuteman® Fusion

~ 6 Day Recovery
Small Incision on Side
Short Procedure Time
Same Day, Out-Patient Surgery
Minimal Blood Loss
Lower Risk of Ligament/Muscle/Tendon Damage
Lower Risk of Neural & Vascular Damage

~ 6 Day Recovery
Small Incision on Side
Short Procedure Time
Same Day, Out-Patient Surgery
Minimal Blood Loss
Lower Risk of Ligament/Muscle/Tendon Damage
Lower Risk of Neural & Vascular Damage

THIS BRIEF VIDEO EXPLAINS THE DIFFERENCE

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MINUTEMAN®?

Ask Our Virtual Assistant Any Question You Want!

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HERE'S HOW THE MINUTEMAN® BACK FUSION WORKS

SEE MODERN TECHNOLOGY AT WORK

BEFORE MINUTEMAN®

AFTER MINUTEMAN®

WHEN THEY THOUGHT ALL HOPE WAS LOST

MINUTEMAN® CHANGED PATIENT’S LIFE FOR THE BETTER

UNDERSTANDING THE MINUTEMAN® PROCESS

This overview explains what to expect during each stage of the Minuteman® procedure so patients can feel informed about the decision to have this back surgery.

Initial Meeting: If you're reading this page, you've probably already completed this step. Specialist doctors thoroughly evaluate the patient’s medical history and spine condition to determine if the Minuteman® Fusion is suitable.

Preparing for Surgery: Patients receive detailed instructions on how to get ready for the procedure, including any necessary tests or medication changes.

Anesthesia: Before surgery, the patient is prepped in the operating room. The area on the back and side is sterilized, localized numbing medication is administered, and the patient may also receive general IV anesthesia. X-rays precisely guide the surgeon.

Accessing the Spine: The surgeon makes a small 1-inch or less incision near the target area on the spine. Tubes of increasing size are inserted through the incision to gently separate the muscles and provide access. Another tube allows the Minuteman® device to be guided into place.

Implanting the Device: The Minuteman® Fusion implant is carefully placed to support the damaged disc and relieve nerve pressure.

Closing the Incision: Once the Minuteman® device is positioned correctly, the incision is closed up with sutures or staples.

Post-Op Instructions: Any tubes are removed, the incision sealed and dressed. Patients are often able to move around shortly after the surgery.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MINUTEMAN®?

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HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

It's important to note that every procedure is different. However, the Minuteman® surgery typically takes less than 60 minutes and is done as an outpatient procedure.

Many patients are back home the same day, and up and walking within a day or two. It's common for Minuteman® patients to experience significant pain relief within one to two weeks.

WHAT TO EXPECT

DURING RECOVERY

Typically, patients can return to normal daily activities within about a week following the Minuteman® procedure. However, individual recovery times may vary. It's essential to closely follow all post-operative instructions from your doctor.

This may involve wound care, activity restrictions, pain management techniques, and more to support smooth healing. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments allows your doctor to monitor your progress closely during recovery.

Reporting any side effects right away is also critical.

While uncommon, potential side effects of the Minuteman procedure include temporary pain/discomfort, infection, bleeding, nerve injury, or issues with surgical implants. Your doctor utilizes minimally invasive spine surgery techniques to help minimize these risks.

MINUTEMAN®

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

"I was having injections for about a year and a half. My doctor talked to me about the Minuteman, and I did it. It’s wonderful! It gave me back my life. I can walk now and I’m not in pain. I love to garden, and I can do that without the pain too. I can do anything. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me!"

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

"I was really happy that the recovery for Minuteman was very short. I went home and I was walking with no pain the very first day. "

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

IS MINUTEMAN® THE RIGHT TREATMENT FOR YOU?

Many patients wonder if spinal fusion necessary? If you are diagnosed with degenerative disc disease (DDD), spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis, there are other non-surgical options to try first.

However, if you've tried injections, physical therapy, or other less invasive treatments without success, then you may be an ideal candidate for the Minuteman® procedure.

Before moving forward with the procedure, your pain management doctors will review all of the available treatment options and make recommendations based on your pain condition and medical history.

MINUTEMAN®

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Minuteman procedure?

The Minuteman procedure is a minimally invasive technique for spinal decompression and stabilization. It’s designed to provide relief for conditions such as Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, Neurogenic Intermittent Claudication, Degenerative Disc Disease, and Lumbar Spinal Instability.

How is the Minuteman procedure different from traditional lumbar fusion surgery?

Unlike traditional open lumbar fusion surgery, the Minuteman procedure is minimally invasive. The entire procedure is done thru a one-inch incision on your side. Minuteman involves no cutting or stripping away of muscle and soft tissue. It aims to maintain the foramina space (this is where the spinal cord and nerves live) and stabilize the lumbar spinal segment, which reduces the chances of symptom recurrence. It also involves a significantly faster recovery process and minimal surgical trauma.

How does the Minuteman procedure compare to other treatments such as steroid injections, RFA, or pain pumps?

While steroid injections, RFA(Radio Frequency Ablation), and pain management devices like spinal cord stimulators or pain pumps might provide lasting or temporary relief; they primarily work by masking the pain. Minuteman potentially targets the root cause of the pain by increasing the foraminal space (the place where the nerves and spinal cord live). Minuteman is a stabilization device. So, if your pain resonates from facet joints or micro motion of the spine, Minuteman will stabilize those areas, potentially providing relief.

Can the Minuteman procedure help delay or avoid the need for traditional fusion surgery?

Yes, the Minuteman procedure can potentially delay or even eliminate the need for traditional lumbar fusion surgery. However, individual outcomes may vary, and it’s essential to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the best treatment options for your specific condition.

What kind of recovery can I expect from the Minuteman procedure?

Due to its minimally invasive nature, recovery from the Minuteman procedure typically involves less time and discomfort than traditional lumbar fusion surgery. However, recovery can vary depending on individual factors such as your overall health, age, and the severity of your condition.

How can I determine if the Minuteman procedure is right for me?

The best way to find out if the Minuteman procedure is suitable for you is by consulting with a certified Minuteman physician. They can evaluate your condition, discuss your treatment history, and help determine the best course of action based on your circumstances.

Is the Minuteman procedure covered by insurance?

Coverage for the Minuteman procedure can vary significantly based on your specific insurance plan. It’s recommended to consult with your insurance provider or a financial counselor at your healthcare provider’s office to understand your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

How long does the Minuteman procedure take?

The Minuteman procedure typically takes less time than traditional open spinal surgeries. The exact duration can vary depending on the individual patient’s condition. Your surgeon can provide more precise timing based on your specific case.

Will I need to have physical therapy following the Minuteman procedure?

Many patients can benefit from a course of physical therapy following the Minuteman procedure to help strengthen the back and promote optimal recovery. Your doctor will provide a recommended treatment plan based on your individual needs.

What are the risks associated with the Minuteman procedure?

As with any surgical procedure, the Minuteman procedure comes with potential risks. These might include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, or the need for additional surgeries. However, due to its minimally invasive nature, the Minuteman procedure typically involves lower risks than traditional open spinal surgeries. Your doctor will talk about these risks with you before your procedure.

Is the Minuteman procedure suitable for patients of all ages?

While the Minuteman procedure can benefit patients of various ages, it’s generally recommended for individuals who have tried and failed conservative treatment methods. Factors such as the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and the severity of their condition also play a significant role in determining the suitability of this procedure.

How soon can I return to my activities after the Minuteman procedure?

The recovery timeline can vary based on individual circumstances, but many patients notice an improvement in their symptoms soon after the procedure and can gradually return to normal activities. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your condition and recovery progress.

Can I have the Minuteman procedure if I’ve already had a spinal cord stimulator or pain pump implanted?

Potentially, yes. If previous treatments, like a spinal cord stimulator or pain pump, have failed to provide lasting relief, the Minuteman procedure could offer a solution. It aims to address the root cause of spinal pain rather than masking it. Discussing this with your surgeon, considering your medical history and current condition, is crucial.

If I have the Minuteman procedure and my symptoms return, what are my options?

If symptoms return after the Minuteman procedure, additional treatment options, including repeat Minuteman procedure, direct surgical decompression, or open fusion surgery may be considered. Your surgeon can discuss these options based on your circumstances and medical history.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT MINUTEMAN®?

Ask Our Virtual Assistant Any Question You Want!

Press the orange voice icon at the top left of each response to hear the answer read by our virtual assistant.

MINUTEMAN®

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

"After the surgery, I woke up and felt really good. I had mild discomfort. I took one pain pill and that was it. I never had to take any additional pain medication. I walked out of the hospital by myself. The next day, I walked a mile. The second day, I walked two miles. And the third day after surgery, I walked three miles!"

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

"Since the surgery, it’s been 5 months, I’ve had zero issues whatsoever. I feel great! I would highly recommend that anyone considering this procedure to you talk with your surgeon."

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

"I could finally sit again without the excruciating pain. I couldn’t believe it. I felt normal. I felt like I had my life back."

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

"I’ve talked to so many people that have had traditional fusions, and have had poor results. The Minuteman is a safe procedure, and I think they should absolutely do it instead."

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

"I didn’t think I could ever feel this good again. I actually feel better than before everything happened and I got hurt in the gym. I’m overall just better."

- Minuteman Procedure Patient

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MINUTEMAN®?

If you still have questions about the Minuteman® procedure, please contact the doctor that referred you to this page for more information and answers based on your specific conditions and symptoms.

DISCLAIMER

The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not replace professional medical advice. The information presented is general and may not apply to your medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your health.

While the website includes information about specific medical procedures and treatments, including the Minuteman procedure, these descriptions are not comprehensive and do not cover all potential risks, benefits, or alternatives. Individual medical needs are unique; therefore, treatment should be tailored to each person. Your doctor is the best resource for information on the benefits and risks of any medical procedure or treatment.

The testimonials or patient success stories on this website reflect the personal experiences of individual patients. They are not a guarantee of results. Treatment outcomes can vary widely from patient to patient, and your experience may differ.

The owners and authors of this website do not assume any liability or responsibility for the content’s accuracy, reliability, or completeness. I’d like to point out that users of this website are encouraged to confirm information received from other sources and to review it carefully with their professional healthcare provider.

Please note that medical information changes rapidly, and while the site is updated frequently, some information may be outdated. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Your use of this website shows that you agree to these terms.

The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not replace professional medical advice. The information presented is general and may not apply to your medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your health.

While the website includes information about specific medical procedures and treatments, including the Minuteman procedure, these descriptions are not comprehensive and do not cover all potential risks, benefits, or alternatives. Individual medical needs are unique; therefore, treatment should be tailored to each person. Your doctor is the best resource for information on the benefits and risks of any medical procedure or treatment.

The testimonials or patient success stories on this website reflect the personal experiences of individual patients. They are not a guarantee of results. Treatment outcomes can vary widely from patient to patient, and your experience may differ.

The owners and authors of this website do not assume any liability or responsibility for the content’s accuracy, reliability, or completeness. I’d like to point out that users of this website are encouraged to confirm information received from other sources and to review it carefully with their professional healthcare provider.

Please note that medical information changes rapidly, and while the site is updated frequently, some information may be outdated. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Your use of this website shows that you agree to these terms.