Procedure Description
The MILD® Procedure (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) is a safe, outpatient treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), a condition where the spinal canal narrows and compresses nerves in the lower back. MILD® is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive alternative to open surgery, designed to restore space in the spinal canal by removing small portions of thickened ligament (ligamentum flavum) that cause nerve compression.
Performed through a tiny incision (about the size of a baby aspirin), MILD® does not involve implants, stitches, or general anesthesia, and preserves spinal stability.
What It Treats
The MILD® Procedure is used to treat:
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) due to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy
Patients experiencing:
Neurogenic claudication (pain, heaviness, or numbness in the legs with standing or walking)
Lower back pain and leg symptoms worsened by activity and improved by sitting or leaning forward
Patients who:
Have not improved with conservative therapies (physical therapy, injections)
Want to avoid or delay open back surgery or spinal fusion
May not be candidates for more invasive surgery due to age or comorbidities
How It Is Performed
You will lie face down on a procedure table and receive local anesthetic with mild sedation.
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the provider identifies the area of spinal stenosis.
Through a 5–6 mm incision, a small specialized instrument is inserted to access the ligamentum flavum.
The thickened ligament tissue is carefully removed to relieve pressure on the nerves and increase space in the spinal canal.
Once decompression is confirmed via imaging, the instrument is removed and a bandage is applied—no stitches are required.
The procedure typically takes less than 1 hour, and patients go home the same day.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure if sedation is planned.
You may need to pause blood thinners a few days before—follow your provider’s guidance.
Continue taking other routine medications unless instructed otherwise.
Inform your provider if you:
Have any allergies to contrast dye or anesthesia
Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active infection
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients experience improvement in leg and back symptoms within days to weeks.
You may experience mild soreness or bruising at the incision site.
You’ll be encouraged to walk shortly after the procedure—often the same day.
Resume light activities within a few days, avoiding strenuous exertion for 1–2 weeks.
A structured physical therapy or walking program may be recommended for optimal results.
Clinical studies show that the MILD® Procedure significantly improves standing time and walking distance, with a low risk of complications and long-lasting symptom relief.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Severe back or leg pain
Numbness, weakness, or bowel/bladder issues
A Safe, Effective Alternative to Open Spine Surgery
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer the MILD® Procedure as a cutting-edge, evidence-based treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis. If you’re struggling to stand or walk due to LSS and want to avoid invasive surgery, MILD® may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to find out if you're a candidate for the MILD® Procedure.