Most spine surgeons perform minimally invasive surgery under general anesthesia. Dr. Sharan goes further — he performs minimally invasive spine surgery while the patient remains awake using regional anesthesia. This “awake MISS” technique, pioneered by Dr. Sharan, provides significant advantages for Spotswood patients:

• Eliminates general anesthesia risks — especially important for patients with heart, lung, or metabolic conditions
• Allows real-time neurological monitoring during surgery — Dr. Sharan communicates with you to confirm nerve function
• Reduces intraoperative blood loss and post-operative nausea
• Enables same-day discharge in the vast majority of cases
• Shorter recovery — most Spotswood patients return to light activity within 2–4 weeks

Dr. Sharan has trained surgeons nationwide in this technique and has published over 100 peer-reviewed studies on regional anesthesia and enhanced recovery in spine surgery. Spotswood patients benefit from access to one of the most experienced awake spine surgeons in the country, just 20 minutes away.

Dr. Alok Sharan, MD, MHCDS is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon and pioneer of the awake minimally invasive spine surgery technique. He completed his fellowship at NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases and serves as Deputy Editor of Clinical Spine Surgery, a leading peer-reviewed journal. Dr. Sharan has been named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and NY Magazine Best Doctor, with over 100 peer-reviewed publications focusing on regional anesthesia, enhanced recovery, and minimally invasive techniques.

His Edison, NJ office at 35-37 Progress St., Suite B5 is easily accessible from Spotswood via Route 9 North — approximately 20 minutes. The office also draws patients from nearby Monroe Township and South Brunswick.

With over 20 years of experience and 201 five-star Google reviews, Dr. Sharan is among New Jersey’s most trusted spine surgeons. New patients are typically seen within 1–2 weeks. You can also upload your MRI images in advance to expedite your consultation.

From Spotswood, take Route 9 North to reach our Edison office — approximately 20 minutes. Address: 35-37 Progress St., Suite B5, Edison, NJ 08820. Phone: (732) 898-3950.

Where can I get minimally invasive spine surgery near Spotswood, NJ?

Dr. Alok Sharan performs minimally invasive spine surgery at 35-37 Progress St., Suite B5, Edison, NJ 08820 — approximately 20 minutes from Spotswood via Route 9 North. Call (732) 898-3950 to schedule — no referral required.

What is the difference between minimally invasive and open spine surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery uses smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and real-time imaging to treat spinal conditions with far less tissue disruption than traditional open surgery. Dr. Sharan also performs MISS under regional anesthesia — eliminating general anesthesia risks entirely.

Am I a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery?

Most patients with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or spondylolisthesis are candidates for MISS. Dr. Sharan will review your imaging and symptoms during your consultation to determine the best approach for your condition.

How long is recovery from minimally invasive spine surgery near Spotswood?

With Dr. Sharan’s awake MISS technique, most patients are discharged the same day and return to light activity within 2–4 weeks — compared to 6–12 weeks with traditional open surgery.

Do I need a referral from Spotswood to see Dr. Sharan?

No referral is needed. Spotswood patients can book directly by calling (732) 898-3950 or using our online contact form. You may also upload your MRI in advance.