Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD®) is an advanced, outpatient procedure designed to treat lumbar spinal stenosis, a common condition that affects many older adults. Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the nerves and leading to back pain, leg pain, numbness, and difficulty walking or standing.
One of the main causes of spinal stenosis is thickening of a ligament in the spine called the ligamentum flavum. The MILD® procedure works by reducing the size of this thickened ligament through a very small incision, creating more space for the spinal nerves and improving blood flow within the spinal canal.
How the MILD® Procedure Works
The MILD® procedure uses specialized tools developed by Stryker to remove small portions of the thickened ligamentum flavum without disturbing the surrounding bone or spinal structures. The procedure is performed through a tiny incision—often only a few millimeters in size.
Using real-time fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician carefully accesses the affected level of the spine and precisely removes excess ligament tissue. By relieving pressure on the nerves, many patients experience improved mobility and reduced leg and back symptoms.
A Treatment Option When Injections Are No Longer Enough
For many patients with spinal stenosis, epidural steroid injections and physical therapy can provide temporary relief early on. However, as stenosis progresses, these treatments may become less effective or shorter-lasting.
The MILD® procedure is often considered when:
- Injections are no longer working like they used to
- Walking or standing becomes increasingly difficult
- Pain improves when sitting or leaning forward
- A patient wants to avoid or delay major spine surgery
MILD® fills the gap between conservative treatments and more invasive surgical options.
Designed to Preserve Mobility and Independence
Spinal stenosis can significantly impact quality of life, limiting how far someone can walk and reducing independence. The goal of the MILD® procedure is to help patients stand longer, walk farther, and remain active without undergoing open spine surgery.
Because the procedure is minimally invasive:
- There are no implants left behind
- No large incisions or hardware
- Minimal disruption to normal spinal anatomy
Many patients return home the same day and resume normal activities relatively quickly.
Who May Be a Candidate for MILD®?
The MILD® procedure may be appropriate for patients with:
- Lumbar spinal stenosis confirmed on MRI or CT
- Thickened ligamentum flavum contributing to nerve compression
- Chronic back and leg symptoms that worsen with standing or walking
- Limited benefit from epidural steroid injections
- A desire to avoid traditional spine surgery
A thorough evaluation and imaging review are required to determine candidacy.
Physician Expertise and Image-Guided Precision
At Interventional Pain Specialists of Wisconsin, the MILD® procedure is performed by double-board-certified physicians in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine. This advanced training provides extensive experience in:
- Spine anatomy and spinal stenosis
- Fluoroscopic-guided procedures
- Minimally invasive spine interventions
- Outpatient surgical techniques
Real-time imaging guidance is used throughout the procedure to ensure precision, safety, and accuracy.
Why Choose the MILD® Procedure at Interventional Pain Specialists of Wisconsin?
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Treats a common cause of spinal stenosis
- Uses a tiny incision—no stitches or hardware
- Performed with fluoroscopic guidance
- Helps reduce pain and improve walking tolerance
- Performed by double-board-certified spine specialists
Is the MILD® Procedure Right for You?
If spinal stenosis is limiting your ability to walk, stand, or remain independent—and injections are no longer providing meaningful relief—the MILD® procedure may be an effective option. During your consultation, we will review your imaging, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether this minimally invasive approach is appropriate for your condition.
When spinal stenosis steals mobility, minimally invasive solutions like MILD® can help patients get back to moving with confidence.