
in New York & New Jersey
Back or neck pain that doesn’t respond to physical therapy, medications, or injections can leave patients searching for the least invasive surgical solution. That’s where laser spine techniques come into the conversation.
During laser-assisted procedures, a focused beam of light (laser) is employed to remove or shrink tissue near spinal nerves.
While not a standalone solution for all spinal conditions, it can help in specific minimally invasive treatments, particularly for disc-related pain. At the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, we understand the impact of spinal health issues on your quality of life. Led by renowned spine surgeon Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, we are dedicated to providing a range of surgical interventions, such as laser spine surgery in NJ and NY, and personalized care plans to alleviate your discomfort and enhance your mobility.
Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive medical procedure that utilizes laser technology to address various spinal conditions.
During the surgery, a laser is used to precisely target and remove damaged or problematic tissue, such as herniated discs or bone spurs that are causing pain or nerve compression. The aim of laser spine surgery is to alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, and promote a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure often leads to smaller incisions, less scarring, and shorter hospital stays.
When a minimally invasive approach is feasible, laser may be incorporated into treatments for the following spinal conditions:
Laser spine surgery is not typically used for fusion procedures, instability, large bone spurs, or severe deformities.
During your consultation and diagnostic workup, Dr. Okubadejo will carefully evaluate your condition to determine whether laser spine surgery is a suitable option. Depending on the specific spinal condition you're experiencing, its severity and location, and how much nerve or tissue compression is present, laser treatment may be employed in your procedure.
In some cases, laser may be used in conjunction with robotic spine surgery for a precise, minimally invasive approach. If laser is the right approach for your procedure, Dr. Okubadejo will walk you through what to expect and how this technique can support a safer, faster recovery. Procedures that incorporate laser typically require only a small incision—typically less than one inch. The guided tools are used to access the affected area. The laser is delivered through a small fiber, allowing Dr. Okubadejo to precisely target the tissue that’s pressing on nerves or contributing to pain. Other tools may also be used to remove disc fragments or stabilize the area. The entire procedure often takes less than two hours and may be performed on an outpatient basis.
Laser technology offers benefits such as:
It’s important to understand that the laser is one tool among many—not a cure-all. Dr. Okubadejo’s role is to determine whether it adds value in your specific case.
If you experience chronic back or neck pain, radiating pain in the arms or legs, or other symptoms associated with spinal conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis, laser spine surgery may be a suitable option for you.
However, it’s essential to schedule a consultation to determine if you are a candidate. Factors such as the specific nature of your condition, medical history, and overall health will be considered when evaluating the appropriateness of laser spine surgery for your individual case. Patients with significant spinal instability, multiple disc levels involved, or prior extensive spine surgery may need other solutions. That’s why a clear diagnosis and personalized evaluation matter most.
Recovery from laser-assisted spine surgery is generally quick. Most patients return to light activity within a few days and resume work within 1–2 weeks, depending on their baseline health and the specific procedure.
You may be advised to avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or high-impact movement for several weeks. Follow-up care ensures proper healing and helps reduce the risk of future symptoms.
We are dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options for spinal conditions.
Our approach to laser spine surgery involves thorough diagnosis, meticulous planning, and ongoing support to ensure a successful outcome and improved quality of life. Working collaboratively with you, we will design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Dr. Okubadejo and our experienced team will guide you through the entire process, providing comprehensive care and support at every step.
When used in appropriate cases, laser spine surgery can help:
Long-term success depends more on accurate diagnosis and surgical expertise than on the use of the laser itself. Dr. Okubadejo helps ensure that the full procedure delivers the results you're looking for.
Our commitment to patient satisfaction and positive outcomes is evident in our past testimonials and our patients’ improved quality of life.
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Laser spine surgery offers several benefits compared to traditional open surgery. It is minimally invasive, resulting in smaller incisions, less scarring, and reduced blood loss.
The targeted approach of the laser allows for precise tissue removal, minimizing damage to surrounding structures. Laser spine surgery also typically involves shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and potentially less post-operative pain.
Laser spine surgery can effectively treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, and facet joint syndrome, among others. However, the specific suitability of laser spine surgery for your condition will be determined by Dr. Okubadejo after a thorough evaluation.
The suitability of laser spine surgery depends on various factors, including the specific spinal condition, the location and extent of the problem, and your overall health. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if laser spine surgery is the right choice for you.
Laser spine surgery is generally associated with minimal pain and discomfort. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience for the patient. Dr. Okubadejo will provide appropriate pain management strategies as part of your overall care plan.
Recovery times can vary depending on the specific procedure and the individual patient. Laser spine surgery is minimally invasive, which often leads to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgeries. Our team will provide personalized guidance on your expected recovery timeline.
Physical therapy is often recommended as part of the recovery process after laser spine surgery. It helps restore strength, flexibility, and mobility, promoting optimal healing and long-term success. Dr. Okubadejo will prescribe a tailored physical therapy program based on your specific needs and goals.