Non-Traumatic Spine Procedures
We perform the most advanced non-traumatic procedures available, using state-of-the-art tools and equipment that are only available at Back Institute.
Ultra-Small Endoscopic — Non-Traumatic Discectomy
NANO Procedure
In a Nano Discectomy, there is no cutting, no bleeding, and no scarring. Using X-ray fluoroscopy and magnified video for guidance, a small specially designed nano probe is inserted through the skin between the vertebrae and into the problem disc. Nano tools remove the offending disc through the hollow center of the probe. On average, the procedure takes about 45 minutes to an hour. There are no stitches — only a small bandaid.
- Smallest scope available — only at Back Institute
- No cutting of muscle, no bone removal
- Dot opening covered with bandaid — no stitches
- Local anesthesia with IV sedation
- Walk out same day
- Supporting structure of disc preserved
Lumbar Decompression
Small Endoscopic
Larger than nano but much smaller than typical open surgery. We perform exact, precise surgery to avoid unnecessary damage. Used for cases where the nano scope may not be sufficient, but still vastly superior to traditional open surgery.
- Precise decompression
- Minimal tissue disruption
- Fast recovery time
- Avoid exploratory cutting
Long-Term Follow-Up Results
Avoiding Fusion
Most patients are offered surgery larger than they need — often because the surgeon does not know how to do it smaller. We offer the smallest endoscopic alternative to spine fusion, artificial disc, laminectomy, laminotomy, microdiscectomy, foraminotomy, facetectomy, discectomy, tubular spine surgery, and larger endoscopic spine surgery.
- Preserve natural spine motion
- Alternative to fusion, laminectomy, facetectomy, tubular spine surgery & more
- Free determination of how large a procedure you actually need
- Long-term follow-up data published & presented at WFNS 2023
Not sure which procedure is right for you?
72 Hours to a New Life
Our non-traumatic approach means dramatically faster recovery. Here's what to expect after your NANO procedure.
Procedure Complete
The NANO procedure takes under 90 minutes. Local anesthesia with light sedation — no general anesthesia required.
Walk Out
Most patients walk out of our facility the same day. No hospital stay. A small bandaid is all you leave with.
Non-Stressful Activity
Patients typically return to non-stressful activity — such as long walking, driving, and sedentary work — within one or two days.
Full Recovery
Full activity is typically restored within weeks. Traditional open or fusion surgery can require 6–12 months — and research suggests 25–46% of patients may experience long-term chronic pain after spine fusion.
2–4 Weeks
NANO Full Recovery
6–12 Months
Traditional Surgery Recovery
Don't Fall for Marketing Hype
Not all spine procedures are created equal. Learn the difference between marketing claims and genuine medical advancement.
MYTH: "Minimally Invasive" means minimal damage
The Truth: Many so-called 'minimally invasive' procedures still involve cutting through muscle, drilling bone, and requiring general anesthesia. The incision may be smaller, but the internal trauma is often significant.
MYTH: "Laser spine surgery" is the most advanced option
The Truth: Laser is primarily a marketing term. Most 'laser' procedures still require large incisions and general anesthesia. Our NANO procedure achieves superior results through a 4mm opening without any of this.
FACT: Spine surgery always means a long recovery
The Truth: With the NANO procedure, most patients walk out the same day and typically return to non-stressful activity within one or two days. Traditional fusion surgery can require 6–12 months of recovery, and research suggests 25–46% of patients may experience long-term chronic pain after spine fusion.
From Pain to Recovery in 5 Steps
Our process is designed to be simple, transparent, and low-stress. We guide you from the first scan review all the way through your recovery.
Submit Your MRI / CT
Send us your existing MRI or CT scan for a complimentary review. Our team analyzes your imaging and determines if you're a candidate — no office visit required.
✓ Free, confidential, no obligationConsultation
Speak directly with our specialist. We'll review your history, imaging, symptoms, and discuss all available options — including whether NANO is right for you.
✓ In-person or telehealth availableProcedure Day
The NANO procedure takes as little as 45 minutes under local or light sedation. A 4mm access point — the size of a dot — is all it takes. No hospital stay needed.
✓ Same-day outpatient procedureWalk Out Same Day
Most patients walk out of our facility the same day. No stitches, no hospital stay, no long recovery. A small bandaid over the access point is all you'll leave with.
✓ No stitches requiredRapid Return to Life
Most patients return to light activity within days and full activity within weeks. Our non-traumatic approach preserves your spine's natural structure for lasting results.
✓ Ongoing support & follow-up care