Minuteman
Minuteman Lumbar Fusion
Posterior lumbar fusion through a minimally invasive interspinous approach.
Treatment Overview
Built around the patient — not the procedure.
The Minuteman is a posterior, minimally invasive interspinous-interlaminar fusion device for the lumbar spine. Placed between the spinous processes of a painful lumbar segment, it provides immediate stabilization with less soft-tissue disruption than traditional open fusion and supports biological fusion over the following months. It is a separate procedure from SI joint fusion; Dr. Baumgartner selects it for patients whose anatomy and imaging fit.
Quick Facts
- Setting
- Outpatient, home same day
- Anesthesia
- Discussed at consult
- Recovery
- Walk same day; full activity 6–12 weeks
- Provided by
- Dr. Baumgartner
A clear, step-by-step approach.
- 1
Imaging and diagnostic evaluation confirm the lumbar segment as the pain source.
- 2
Through a small posterior incision, the Minuteman implant is positioned between the spinous processes of the treated lumbar level.
- 3
The device is locked in place under fluoroscopic guidance, providing immediate stability.
- 4
Bone graft promotes biological fusion of the segment over the following months.
Who is it for
- Lumbar pain that has not responded to physical therapy and injections
- Imaging that shows a lumbar segment that would benefit from stabilization
- Patients seeking a posterior, minimally invasive alternative to open lumbar fusion
- Failure of conservative care over 6+ months
What to expect
- Procedure time is typically under 60 minutes.
- Outpatient — most patients go home the same day.
- Light walking encouraged within 24 hours.
- Pain relief progresses over 2–3 months as fusion biology develops.
Recovery & results
- Most patients walk unassisted the same day; an assistive device is used only if Dr. Baumgartner advises it for you individually.
- Light activities resume within 1–2 weeks.
- Full activity by 6–12 weeks, individualized.
- Imaging follow-up to confirm fusion at 6 and 12 months.
Honest about what to expect.
Every procedure carries some risk. We explain everything in plain language during your consultation, and again on the day of the procedure — so you know what is normal, what to watch for, and when to call.
- Mild soreness, bruising, or tenderness at the access site for several days.
- Temporary increase in pain in the first 24–72 hours as inflammation settles.
- Rare risk of infection, bleeding, or allergic reaction to medications.
- Procedure-specific risks discussed in detail during your consultation.
- Most patients tolerate the procedure well and return to light activity quickly.
Direct answers — no jargon.
If your question isn’t here, ask us at your consultation. We will give you the same answer in plain English.
- No. Minuteman is a lumbar spine procedure — the device sits between the spinous processes of a lumbar segment to stabilize it. SI joint fusion treats the sacroiliac joint of the pelvis and uses different systems. Both are offered here, and the diagnostic workup determines which, if either, fits your pain source.
We verify your benefits before your visit.
Minuteman lumbar fusion is typically covered by major commercial insurance, Medicare, and most government plans when medically indicated. Our team verifies your benefits, copays, and prior-authorization requirements before your visit. For services not covered by insurance, we offer transparent self-pay pricing and CareCredit financing.
Insurance & financing detailsQuick answers
- Will my insurance cover this? We check before your visit.
- Self-pay options? Yes, with transparent pricing.
- Financing? CareCredit and similar programs available.
Expertise
The standard of Minuteman care, raised to where it belongs.
Minuteman lumbar fusion at HTx Pain Institute is performed by Edward Baumgartner Jr., MD — double board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, with over fifteen years of interventional pain medicine experience. We combine institute-caliber technical execution with the time and judgment every patient deserves. Precision. Lasting Relief.
What Minuteman Lumbar Fusion is used for.
Other treatments we offer.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Outpatient procedure using precise electrical current to quiet damaged or inflamed nerves.
Learn moreInjections & Nerve Blocks
Image-guided injections that calm inflamed joints, nerves, and spinal structures.
Learn moreSI Joint Fusions
A separate procedure for the sacroiliac joint of the pelvis — minimally invasive fusion for confirmed SI joint pain.
Learn moreMedically Reviewed
Reviewed by Edward Baumgartner Jr., MD · Last reviewed . Information on this page is not medical advice. Always consult your physician.
Ready When You Are
Get the care you deserve. Schedule your consultation today.
Two Houston-area locations. Same-week consults available. Most insurance accepted.