The Evolution of Spine Surgery
Traditional spine surgery required surgeons to make 5-6 inch incisions and cut through layers of muscle to access the spine. Patients faced significant blood loss, lengthy hospital stays, and recovery times stretching 3-6 months. For many, the cure felt nearly as debilitating as the condition itself.
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) changed everything. Using advanced technology—surgical microscopes, tubular retractors, and endoscopes—surgeons can now access the spine without cutting major muscles. Instead, muscles are gently dilated and moved aside, preserving their integrity and dramatically reducing recovery time.
Fort Wayne patients no longer need to travel to Indianapolis, Chicago, or Cleveland for world‑class spine care. Dr. Greenberg brings fellowship‑trained expertise to Fort Wayne, offering the same advanced techniques available at major academic medical centers—with the convenience and personalized attention of a local practice.
What Makes Surgery "Minimally Invasive"?
It's not just about incision size. True MISS involves specialized training, advanced visualization technology, and techniques that minimize tissue trauma. This results in less pain, lower infection risk, and faster return to normal activities.
Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Open Surgery
The differences between minimally invasive and traditional open spine surgery are dramatic. Understanding these distinctions helps explain why patients who choose MISS often return to work and normal activities months earlier than those who undergo traditional surgery.
| Factor | Minimally Invasive (MISS) | Traditional Open |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | 0.5-1 inch | 5-6 inches |
| Muscle Damage | Muscles dilated/moved aside | Muscles cut and stripped |
| Blood Loss | Minimal (often <50ml) | Significant (200-500ml+) |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient/Same-day | 3-5 days inpatient |
| Walking | Same day, within hours | 1-2 days post‑op |
| Return to Work | 2-4 weeks (desk), 6-8 weeks (physical) | 6-12 weeks (desk), 3-6 months (physical) |
| Full Recovery | 8-12 weeks | 3-6 months |
The Key Differentiator: Dr. Greenberg specializes in minimally invasive techniques, whereas many general orthopedic surgeons still default to traditional open approaches. This isn't because open surgery is better—it’s often because they haven't received the specialized fellowship training required to master MISS techniques.
When you choose a fellowship‑trained spine surgeon in Fort Wayne who specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery, you're choosing a surgeon who has dedicated years to mastering techniques that prioritize your recovery and quality of life.
Procedures We Perform Minimally Invasively
Dr. Greenberg performs a comprehensive range of spine procedures using minimally invasive techniques. Each procedure is tailored to your specific diagnosis, with the goal of relieving pain while preserving as much natural motion and function as possible.
Microdiscectomy / Endoscopic Discectomy
For herniated discs causing sciatica or leg pain. Endoscopic discectomy uses an incision smaller than a dime, allowing same‑day discharge and return to light activity within 1‑2 weeks.
Learn about endoscopic discectomyMinimally Invasive Spinal Fusion (MIS‑TLIF)
When fusion is necessary for instability or severe degeneration, MIS‑TLIF achieves the same stability as traditional fusion through a 1‑2 inch incision. Patients often go home the next day.
Explore minimally invasive fusionCervical Disc Replacement
A motion‑preserving alternative to cervical fusion for neck pain and arm pain. Maintains natural neck movement while eliminating pain from herniated or degenerated discs.
Compare disc replacement vs. fusionLaminectomy / Decompression for Stenosis
Relieves pressure on spinal nerves caused by spinal stenosis. Minimally invasive decompression eliminates leg pain and numbness while preserving spinal stability.
Learn about sciatica treatmentRobotic‑Assisted Spine Surgery
Advanced robotic guidance systems enhance precision during complex procedures, particularly for screw placement in fusion surgery. This technology improves accuracy while maintaining minimally invasive benefits.
Discover robotic spine surgeryBenefits for the Active Fort Wayne Patient
Fort Wayne is a community of active people—golfers at Coyote Creek, factory workers at Zimmer Biomet and General Motors, farmers across Allen County, and parents coaching youth sports. When spine pain threatens your ability to work or enjoy life, minimally invasive surgery offers distinct advantages.
Motion Preservation
We don't just fix the pain—we keep you moving. By preserving natural spinal motion whenever possible, you maintain flexibility for golf swings, lifting grandchildren, and all the activities that matter to you.
Rapid Return to Work
For self‑employed professionals and manual laborers, every week away from work matters. Minimally invasive techniques typically allow desk workers to return in 2‑4 weeks and physical workers in 6‑8 weeks—compared to 3‑6 months with traditional surgery.
Lower Infection Risk
Smaller incisions mean less exposure and dramatically reduced infection risk. Studies show infection rates for minimally invasive spine surgery are 2‑3 times lower than traditional open procedures.
Less Post‑Op Pain
Because muscles aren't cut, post‑operative pain is significantly reduced. Many patients require only over‑the‑counter pain medication within days of surgery, avoiding the risks of prolonged opioid use.
Real Patient Impact
"I had endoscopic discectomy on a Friday and was back to my desk job the following Monday. By week three, I was playing golf again. I couldn't believe how fast I recovered compared to what I'd heard about traditional back surgery." — Fort Wayne patient, age 52
Why Fellowship Training Matters
Not all spine surgeons are created equal. After completing medical school and a 5‑7 year orthopedic or neurosurgery residency, most surgeons enter practice.Fellowship‑trained spine surgeons pursue an additional 1‑2 years of specialized training focused exclusively on spine surgery and advanced techniques.
Dr. Greenberg completed his spine surgery fellowship at a leading academic institution, where he mastered minimally invasive, endoscopic, and robotic techniques under the guidance of internationally recognized experts. This isn't training you can get from a weekend course or industry seminar—it requires thousands of hours of hands‑on experience with complex cases.
The Fellowship Difference
Advanced Technique Mastery
Fellowship training provides intensive experience with endoscopic, minimally invasive, and motion‑preserving techniques that many general orthopedic surgeons never learn.
Complex Case Experience
Fellows manage the most challenging spine cases—revisions, deformities, multi‑level pathology—building expertise that translates to better outcomes for all patients.
Evidence‑Based Decision Making
Fellowship programs emphasize research and outcomes data, ensuring treatment recommendations are based on the latest scientific evidence, not outdated protocols.
When you choose a fellowship‑trained spine surgeon in Fort Wayne, you're choosing a physician who has dedicated their career to mastering the most advanced techniques available. Dr. Greenberg didn't just learn these procedures at a weekend course—he spent years perfecting them at top institutions, and he brings that expertise to every patient he treats.
The "Rapid Recovery" Protocol
Fast recovery isn't just about surgical technique—it's about the entire care experience. Dr. Greenberg employs an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) approach that optimizes every phase of your treatment, from pre‑operative preparation through post‑operative rehabilitation.
Pre‑Operative Education
Detailed explanation of your procedure, recovery timeline, and expectations. Patients who understand their surgery recover faster and experience less anxiety.
Minimally Invasive Technique
Advanced surgical approaches that minimize tissue trauma, reduce blood loss, and preserve muscle integrity—the foundation of rapid recovery.
Early Mobilization
You'll be walking within hours of surgery, not days. Early movement prevents complications, reduces pain, and accelerates healing.
Typical Recovery Timeline: Endoscopic Discectomy
Local Trust & Access
You shouldn't have to travel to Indianapolis, Chicago, or Cleveland for world‑class spine care. Dr. Greenberg brings fellowship‑trained expertise to Fort Wayne, offering the same advanced techniques available at major academic medical centers—with the convenience and personalized attention of a local practice.
Conveniently Located
Our Fort Wayne office serves patients throughout Allen County and surrounding communities including Huntington, Columbia City, Auburn, Kendallville, and Angola. Surgery is performed at Parkview facilities, close to your home and family.
Rapid Access
New patient appointments within 7 days—no 3‑month wait lists like large hospital systems. When you're in pain, you need answers quickly. We prioritize rapid evaluation and clear treatment plans.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don't settle for a 6‑inch scar if you don't have to. Schedule a consultation with Fort Wayne's expert in minimally invasive spine surgery.
Request Appointment – Seen in 7 DaysFrequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery?
Most patients with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease are excellent candidates for minimally invasive techniques. During your consultation, Dr. Greenberg will review your imaging and symptoms to determine if MISS is appropriate for your specific condition.
Even complex cases—including revisions, multi‑level pathology, and deformity—can often be addressed with minimally invasive approaches when performed by a fellowship‑trained specialist.
Is "laser spine surgery" the same as minimally invasive surgery?
No. "Laser spine surgery" is primarily a marketing term used by some facilities. True minimally invasive spine surgery uses surgical microscopes, endoscopes, and specialized instruments—not lasers.
While lasers have limited applications in spine surgery, the techniques Dr. Greenberg employs—endoscopic discectomy, tubular retractor‑based decompression, and minimally invasive fusion—are proven, evidence‑based approaches backed by decades of research and superior outcomes data.
Does insurance cover minimally invasive spine surgery?
Yes. Minimally invasive spine surgery uses the same CPT codes as traditional open surgery, so insurance coverage is identical. In fact, because MISS often results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, the overall cost to insurance companies is frequently lower.
We accept most major insurance plans and work with workers' compensation carriers. Our team will verify your coverage and explain any out‑of‑pocket costs before scheduling surgery.
How long does minimally invasive spine surgery take?
Most minimally invasive procedures take 1‑2 hours. Endoscopic discectomy typically takes 45‑60 minutes, while minimally invasive fusion may take 2‑3 hours depending on complexity. Despite the precision required, MISS procedures are often faster than traditional open surgery because there's less tissue dissection and muscle retraction.
What if minimally invasive surgery doesn't work for me?
Success rates for minimally invasive spine surgery are excellent—typically 85‑90% of patients experience significant pain relief and functional improvement. However, not every patient is a candidate for MISS, and not every spine problem can be solved with minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Greenberg is trained in both minimally invasive and traditional open techniques. If your condition requires a more extensive approach, he'll explain why and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment—not just the most marketable one.
Experience the Difference of Fellowship‑Trained Expertise
Don't settle for outdated surgical techniques or travel hours for advanced care. Dr. Greenberg brings minimally invasive spine surgery expertise to Fort Wayne—with appointments available within 7 days.