Procedure Description
The Minuteman® procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment designed to stabilize the spine and relieve pain caused by lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. The Minuteman® interspinous spacer is a small, implantable device placed between the spinous processes (the bony projections on the back of each vertebra) to reduce nerve compression and improve spinal alignment.
Unlike traditional spinal fusion, the Minuteman® procedure involves no large incisions, muscle dissection, or screws, making it a safe and effective alternative for patients who wish to avoid more invasive surgery.
What It Treats
The Minuteman® interspinous spacer is used to treat:
Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Neurogenic claudication (leg pain, weakness, or numbness with walking or standing)
Degenerative disc disease
Mild to moderate spondylolisthesis
Patients who:
Have failed conservative therapies such as physical therapy, medications, or injections
Are not ideal candidates for traditional fusion surgery due to age or comorbidities
Want a minimally invasive solution with a shorter recovery time
How It Is Performed
You will lie on your stomach or side, and local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia will be administered.
A small lateral or posterior incision (about 1 inch) is made near the affected vertebral segment.
Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the surgeon inserts the Minuteman® device between the spinous processes of two adjacent vertebrae.
Once in position, the implant is expanded and locked in place, providing immediate stabilization and restoring space for spinal nerves.
Bone graft material may be added to promote fusion between the vertebrae, depending on the specific case.
The incision is closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a small bandage is applied.
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours prior to the procedure if sedation or general anesthesia is planned.
You may need to pause blood thinners or certain medications before the procedure—follow your provider’s instructions.
Inform your provider if you:
Have any allergies to implants, anesthesia, or antibiotics
Have an active infection or fever
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your appointment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients return home within a few hours of the procedure.
You may experience mild soreness or swelling at the incision site, which usually resolves within a few days.
Pain relief from nerve decompression can begin within days to weeks, with continued improvement as inflammation subsides.
You will likely be advised to avoid bending, twisting, or heavy lifting for several weeks.
Your provider may recommend a gradual return to activity and physical therapy to support healing.
The Minuteman® device is designed to remain in place permanently and may allow for fusion if bone graft material is used.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
New numbness, weakness, or bowel/bladder changes
Persistent or worsening back or leg pain
Durable Stability Through Minimally Invasive Technology
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer the Minuteman® Interspinous Spacer Implantation as a cutting-edge solution for patients with lumbar spine instability and stenosis who want effective relief without open surgery. This FDA-cleared procedure offers stability, nerve decompression, and lasting results—all through a small incision.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to find out if you're a candidate for the Minuteman® procedure.