What Is the MILD Procedure?
MILD stands for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression. It is an outpatient procedure designed to treat a condition called lumbar spinal stenosis — a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back that puts pressure on the nerves. This narrowing is often caused by a thickened ligament (called the ligamentum flavum) that crowds the spinal canal over time.
The MILD procedure gently removes small portions of bone and excess ligament tissue through a tiny incision to restore space in the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the nerves.
What Symptoms Does MILD Treat?
MILD is designed for people experiencing neurogenic claudication — a pattern of symptoms caused by pinched nerves in the lower back. Common symptoms include:
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs or buttocks
- Difficulty standing for extended periods
- Difficulty walking more than a short distance
- Symptoms that improve when sitting down or leaning forward
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- MILD is performed through a very small incision (about the size of a baby aspirin) in the back.
- Dr. Badiyan uses real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) to guide specialized instruments to the affected area of the spine.
- Small amounts of bone and thickened ligament tissue are carefully removed to open up the spinal canal.
- The procedure typically takes less than an hour and is usually done with light sedation
- No implants, stitches, or staples are needed.
- Most patients go home the same day.
What Are the Benefits?
- Significant pain relief: Clinical studies have shown meaningful reductions in pain that can last two years or more.
- Improved mobility: Patients in studies experienced major improvements in their ability to walk and stand comfortably.
- Strong safety profile: No serious procedure-related complications were reported in major clinical trials.
- Quick recovery: Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks.
- Preserves future options: Because no implants are placed, the procedure does not limit future treatment options if they are ever needed.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
MILD may be right for you if:
- You have been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis caused by a thickened ligamentum flavum
- Conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or epidural steroid injections have not provided adequate relief
- You want a less invasive alternative to traditional spine surgery
- You may not be a good candidate for open surgery due to age or other health conditions
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients resume light activities within a few days. Dr. Badiyan will provide specific recovery instructions, but many people return to their normal daily routine relatively quickly. Some patients experience gradual improvement over the weeks following the procedure.
Is MILD Right for You?
Talk to Dr. Badiyan to find out whether the MILD procedure may be an appropriate option for your spinal stenosis symptoms. Dr. Badiyan can review your imaging studies and medical history to determine if you are a candidate.
