It depends. During the initial examination and upon review of the pain generator results we will determine what and how much surgery you may need. It will depend upon the extent of the damage and the number of levels/locations involved. The one disadvantage of the minimally invasive approach is that we can only address one small area at a time. If your disease is extensive and diffuse more than one procedure could be necessary. For most people, the problem once located, is focal and one procedure is usually all that is necessary.