Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Dr. Marc Greenberg is Fort Wayne's fellowship-trained spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive techniques. With advanced training from Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Brown University, Dr. Greenberg offers patients in Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio access to endoscopic spine surgery, robotic-assisted procedures, and motion-preserving alternatives through the Parkview Health network — all with smaller incisions, postoperative pain planning, and recovery.
Opening August 2026. New patient appointments typically available as scheduling allows. Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home the same day.
What is minimally invasive spine surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses specialized instruments, endoscopes, or robotic guidance to access the spine through incisions typically under 1 inch. This approach minimizes muscle and tissue disruption, resulting in less post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, hospital stay planning (often same-day), and faster return to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery. Dr. Marc Greenberg at Greenberg Spine in Fort Wayne performs these procedures for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and select fusion cases.
How MIS Differs from Traditional Open Spine Surgery
The same surgical goals — less tissue disruption, recovery.
| Factor | Minimally Invasive | Traditional Open |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | Typically under 1 inch | 4–6 inches |
| Blood Loss | Minimal | Moderate to significant |
| Muscle Disruption | Preserved — natural tissue planes | Stripped and retracted |
| Hospital Stay | Same-day (outpatient) or 1 night | 2–5 nights |
| Return to Work (Desk) | 1–3 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Return to Work (Physical) | 4–8 weeks | 3–6 months |
| Infection Risk | Lower | Higher |
| Post-Op Pain | Less — minimal narcotic need | More — longer narcotic use |
| Scar Size | Small, cosmetically favorable | Large, more visible |
Individual results vary. Recovery timelines depend on the specific procedure, patient health, and adherence to post-operative instructions.
Procedures Dr. Greenberg Performs Minimally Invasively
Fellowship-trained expertise in the least invasive techniques proven effective for your specific condition.
Endoscopic Discectomy
Ultra-minimally invasive disc removal through small incisions in appropriately selected patients
Learn moreMIS TLIF / Lateral Fusion
Minimally invasive lumbar fusion with reduced tissue disruption
Learn moreCervical Disc Replacement
Motion-preserving artificial disc for neck pain and radiculopathy
Learn moreMicrodiscectomy
Minimally invasive removal of herniated disc material for sciatica relief
Learn moreLumbar Laminectomy
Minimally invasive decompression for spinal stenosis and nerve pressure
Learn moreSI Joint Fusion
Minimally invasive stabilization for sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Learn moreKyphoplasty
Minimally invasive treatment for painful vertebral compression fractures
Learn moreWho Is a Candidate for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive techniques are appropriate for many — but not all — spine conditions. Dr. Greenberg evaluates each patient individually.
Herniated Disc
Spinal Stenosis
Sciatica
Degenerative Disc Disease
Spondylolisthesis
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical Myelopathy
SI Joint Dysfunction
Vertebral Compression Fracture
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Not all conditions qualify for minimally invasive approaches
Complex spinal deformities, multi-level revisions, severe instability, and certain anatomical variations may require open techniques to achieve safe, lasting results. Dr. Greenberg will recommend the least invasive approach that appropriately addresses your specific condition — never compromising safety for incision size.
Recovery Timeline After Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Most patients walk the same day and return to daily life faster than with open surgery. Timelines vary by procedure and individual factors.
Day 0 — Surgery Day
Most minimally invasive procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. You will walk within hours of surgery and go home the same day with a family member. Pain is typically well-controlled with minimal narcotic medication.
Week 1 — Early Recovery
Light walking is encouraged several times daily. No lifting over 10–15 pounds. Incision care is minimal — often just a small bandage. Most patients discontinue prescription pain medication within 3–5 days.
Weeks 2–3 — Building Activity
Return to desk work and light daily activities. Driving is permitted when you can comfortably turn your head and react in an emergency (typically 1–2 weeks). Walking distance and pace increase gradually.
Weeks 4–6 — Progressive Return
Physical therapy typically begins, focusing on core strengthening and flexibility. Light exercise such as swimming or stationary cycling may be approved. For decompression patients, many resume light physical job duties.
Weeks 6–12 — Near Full Recovery
Most patients return to full activities, including moderate exercise and physical job duties. Fusion patients continue to protect the surgical site while bone healing progresses. Follow-up X-rays or MRI may be obtained to confirm healing.
3–6 Months — Long-Term Healing
Full bone fusion is typically achieved by 3–6 months for fusion patients. Most patients report sustained pain relief and improved function. Regular follow-up ensures long-term success.
Important caveat
Recovery timelines are general guidelines. Actual recovery depends on the specific procedure, number of levels treated, overall health, age, smoking status, and adherence to post-operative instructions. Dr. Greenberg provides personalized recovery expectations during your consultation.
Why Fort Wayne Patients Choose Greenberg Spine
Elite training, advanced technology, and a patient-first philosophy.
Elite Medical Training
Dr. Greenberg trained at Mayo Clinic (medical degree), Johns Hopkins Hospital (residency), and Brown University (complex spine fellowship). This rare combination provides expertise in endoscopic, robotic, and motion-preserving techniques that few surgeons in the Midwest offer.
Endoscopic Excellence
Endoscopic spine surgery — one of the less invasive surgical options — uses small incisions in appropriately selected patients with high-definition cameras. Dr. Greenberg's fellowship training in endoscopic techniques means Fort Wayne patients have local access to procedures previously available only at major academic centers.
Robotic & Navigation Technology
Robotic-assisted spinal fusion and navigation-guided procedures provide highly precise guidance for implant placement. This technology reduces radiation exposure, improves precision, and enables smaller incisions even for complex fusion cases.
Motion Preservation Focus
Not every spine problem requires fusion. Dr. Greenberg prioritizes motion-preserving alternatives such as cervical disc replacement and endoscopic decompression whenever clinically appropriate — preserving natural spinal movement and reducing stress on adjacent segments.
Parkview Health Network
As part of the Parkview Health network, Dr. Greenberg offers the resources of one of Indiana's leading healthcare systems combined with the personalized attention of a specialty spine practice. Patients benefit from comprehensive pre-operative evaluation, modern surgical facilities, and coordinated post-operative care.
Rapid Access to Care
New patient appointment availability varies; call the office to discuss current openings. We do not believe patients in pain should wait months for evaluation. If surgery is recommended, timing depends on medical readiness, facility availability, insurance authorization, and your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about minimally invasive spine surgery in Fort Wayne.
What is minimally invasive spine surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses specialized instruments, endoscopes, or robotic guidance to access the spine through incisions typically under 1 inch. This approach minimizes muscle and tissue disruption, resulting in less post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, hospital stay planning (often same-day), and faster return to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery.
How does MIS differ from traditional open spine surgery?
Traditional open spine surgery requires incisions of 4–6 inches with significant muscle stripping and retraction. Minimally invasive techniques use incisions under 1 inch, working through natural tissue planes with specialized tubes and cameras. This preserves muscle integrity, reduces blood loss, lowers infection risk, and enables recovery — often allowing patients to go home the same day and return to work within 2–4 weeks instead of months.
Is minimally invasive spine surgery safe?
Yes. When performed by a fellowship-trained surgeon with appropriate experience, minimally invasive spine surgery has a strong safety profile. Studies show equivalent or better outcomes compared to open surgery, with lower infection rates, less blood loss, and reduced need for narcotic pain medication. Dr. Greenberg's fellowship training at Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and Brown University provides specialized expertise in these advanced techniques.
How long is recovery after minimally invasive spine surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients walk within hours of surgery and go home the same day. Desk work typically resumes in 1–3 weeks, light physical activity in 2–4 weeks, and full recovery in 6–12 weeks. Endoscopic discectomy patients often return to desk work in 1–2 weeks, while fusion patients may need 4–6 weeks before returning to physical jobs.
Will I need physical therapy after MIS?
Most patients benefit from physical therapy after minimally invasive spine surgery. A structured rehabilitation program typically begins 2–4 weeks post-operatively and focuses on core strengthening, flexibility, and proper body mechanics. The duration and intensity depend on the specific procedure and individual recovery progress.
Is MIS covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and major commercial carriers, cover minimally invasive spine surgery when it is medically necessary and performed by a qualified surgeon. Our office verifies coverage and obtains pre-authorization before surgery to ensure there are no unexpected costs.
Can all spine conditions be treated with minimally invasive techniques?
Not all spine conditions are suitable for minimally invasive approaches. Simple decompression procedures, single-level disc herniations, and select fusion cases are excellent candidates. Complex deformities, multi-level revisions, or certain anatomical variations may require open techniques. Dr. Greenberg evaluates each case individually to determine the least invasive approach that safely addresses the specific condition.
What hospitals does Dr. Greenberg operate at in Fort Wayne?
Dr. Greenberg operates at Parkview Health facilities in Fort Wayne, Indiana, providing patients in Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio access to advanced minimally invasive spine surgery through one of the region's leading healthcare networks.
Am I a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery?
Candidates for minimally invasive spine surgery typically have a confirmed structural problem on imaging (such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis) that correlates with their symptoms, have tried conservative treatments like physical therapy and injections without adequate relief, and have anatomy suitable for minimally invasive approaches. Dr. Greenberg evaluates each patient individually during a comprehensive consultation.
How do I schedule a consultation for MIS in Fort Wayne?
You can schedule a consultation by calling Greenberg Spine at (260) 484-1400 or requesting an appointment through our online contact form. Most new patients are seen as scheduling allows. Dr. Greenberg will review your imaging, perform a physical examination, and discuss all treatment options — including non-surgical alternatives — during your visit.
Serving Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana
Dr. Greenberg welcomes patients from throughout Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio seeking minimally invasive spine surgery. Our primary service area includes Allen County, Whitley County, Wells County, DeKalb County, Huntington County, Adams County, Noble County, Wabash County, and Kosciusko County — covering Fort Wayne, New Haven, Auburn, Columbia City, Huntington, Angola, Kendallville, Warsaw, Wabash, and Bluffton.
We also serve patients from Northwest Ohio, including Bryan, Defiance, Archbold, Wauseon, and Montpelier. If you are searching for "minimally invasive spine surgery near me" or "MIS spine surgery Indiana," Greenberg Spine in Fort Wayne offers advanced techniques without the need to travel to Indianapolis, Chicago, or Cleveland.
As part of the Parkview Health network, we provide convenient access to world-class spine care with the full resources of a major healthcare system — right here in Fort Wayne.
Ready to Explore Minimally Invasive Options?
Back and neck pain shouldn't control your life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Greenberg to discuss whether minimally invasive spine surgery is right for your condition.
Appointment availability varies. Call today and speak with the office about current openings.
About this content
This page was written and clinically reviewed by Marc Greenberg, MD, a fellowship-trained spine surgeon who trained at Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and Brown University, practicing in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician.