We Treat What Others Can't.
We Specialize in Advanced Spine Surgery, utilizing the most cutting-edge techniques and emerging technologies. While many practices in the area offer a handful of procedures, we are the only comprehensive service in Western Massachusetts that routinely performs more than 30 spine procedures to help you get your life back.
PROOF IS IN THE SPINE STATS
0%0% Infection Rate
National average can be as high as 6.7% |
1 Day1 Day average length of stay for lumbar fusion
Elsewhere can be as high as 3.6 days |
69.569.5% Same day surgery
Most patients can go home same day |
The Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery has an established track record for providing access to quality care and treatments with outstanding results in our first year.
Business Rate Top 3 AwardRanked 1 of the Top 3 Neurosurgeons in Massachusetts (2025) by Business Rate. This award is uniquely meaningful as it is determined by our 2025 Google reviews and patient testimonials. It serves as a testament to our commitment to providing world-class surgical care with a patient-first approach.
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Advanced Certification
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Three Best RatedWe are honored to be named one of the Top 3 Neurosurgeons around Springfield, MA by Three Best Rated®. This distinction is awarded only after a rigorous 50-Point Inspection that evaluates our clinical experience, patient satisfaction, and professional reputation. This recognition reinforces our commitment to providing the highest standard of neurosurgical care to our community.
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Spine Surgery Tailored To The Patient
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Experience MattersThe Institute for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery is led by Dr. Frederik Pennings. He is the only spine fellowship trained neurosurgeon in Western Massachusetts and has over 25 years of training and experience.
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Dr. Pennings & his team were excellent, everyone was personable, and everything was orchestrated smoothly & professionally... - Mike
Procedures
Minimally Invasive Techniques In most cases, we can complete your surgery through very small incisions. This allows you to heal faster and leave the hospital the same day or the next.
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Disc ReplacementAt The Institute for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Artificial discs are always considered. Restoring the Body to its natural state is important.
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Complex SpineWith an ever growing armamentarium of techniques and technologies we are able to treat the most complex spinal cases.
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We Treat What Others Can't.We treat every patient who needs surgery, including high-risk patients who may have multiple risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or osteoporosis.
Dr. Pennings has procedures and protocols specifically designed for high-risk patients.
"We can treat the spine 360°, from skull base to the pelvis no matter the pathology, age or size".
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My back was done for, my friends told me about Dr. Pennings. One day in surgery and I was back. Quicker than expected too". - Josh
Meet Our Team
Aaron Pitrat, PA-CAaron Pitrat joined the team in 2023. He
has a background in psychology and completed a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Westfield State University. Aaron is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician’s Assistants. Aaron is the newest addition to The Minimally Invasive Spine Institute, and he is interested in research. |
Dr. Frederik PenningsThe only spine fellowship-trained neurosurgeon in the area, Dr. Frederik Pennings, brings more than 25 years of neurosurgical training and experience to the Institute. He is a renowned leader in minimally invasive spine surgery, with an innovative clinical practice and a published record of advances that improve patient outcomes. Prior to leading The Institute for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Holyoke Medical Center, Dr. Pennings established the Minimally Invasive Spine Center of New England and the MIS spine program at UMass Memorial Medical Center.
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Michael Bennett, PA-CA neurosurgery physician’s assistant for more than 20 years, Michael Bennett brings a wealth of clinical experience to the diagnosis, treatment and recovery of spine surgery patients. He also assists on advanced procedures including minimally invasive spine surgeries on the back, neck and spine. He previously practiced at the Minimally Invasive Spine Center of New England, the MIS spine program at UMass Memorial Medical Center, and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician’s Assistants.
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