The Learning Curve in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive spine surgery has evolved dramatically during the past 15 years. Technological advances have enabled the spine surgeon to perform a wide range of spinal procedures effectively while reducing approach-related morbidity and improving patient outcomes. For these reasons, minimally invasive spine surgery is becoming increasingly popular not only among spine surgeons but also with their patients. The time and effort involved in incorporating a new technique into one's practice depends on several factors. This “learning curve” will be the focus of this article.