St. Mary’s of Michigan neurosurgeon Dr. Gerald Schell has become the first in the state and one of only a few in the country to perform a unique, two-level lumbar fusion surgery.

The new, minimally invasive procedure is used to treat degenerative disc disease affecting the lower lumbar region of the spine.

“This surgery,” said Dr. Schell, “enables us to perform, for the first time ever, a multi-level lumbar fusion with little or no disruption of soft tissue, muscles, or nerves.”

The procedure, developed by the Trans1 medical device company, enables patients to leave the hospital early with a rapid return to normal lifestyle activities and dramatic long-term reduction of disabling leg and back pain. The entire operation is carried out through a small, one and a half inch incision.

“This new double level surgery will enable surgeons to help a whole group of people who are experiencing pain from degenerative disc disease,” Dr. Schell said.

Previously, the Trans1 procedure had been approved for one level only.

Dr. Schell has become a nationwide leader in performing Trans1 minimally invasive spine fusion.

The Trans1 company regularly sends representatives to Saginaw to train with and observe Dr. Schell in the operating room.