Spine Surgery Services
Spinal surgery is a surgical process that is performed for the correction of damaged or broken parts of the spine. Spine surgery can range from minimally invasive to more complex surgeries depending on the specific condition and severity.
This surgery has no age limit. The suitability for surgery depends on the individual’s overall health. Medical history, the specific spinal condition being treated, and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
Age alone doesn’t determine eligibility for spinal surgery. Older adults can undergo spinal surgery successfully if they are in good health and have reasonable expectations for the outcome of the surgery.
Why is spinal surgery performed?
If you have been suffering from different back pain for a long time. It’s normal to question when spine surgery is necessary. But, in reality, for many patients, spine surgery is not needed and we find other therapies and methods to relieve nagging pain. For instance, non-surgical treatment for back pain such as over-the-counter medication and physical therapy are frequently effective.
However, surgery can reduce certain causes of pain. It doesn’t occur frequently. Back pain often heals itself in a few months or less with proper therapy. While surgery may appear a viable solution to address persistent back pain, in most circumstances, surgery does not occur in our practice unless necessary.
Benefits of spinal surgery
- Spinal surgery and intervention, when performed correctly for the right indication can be life-changing and markedly improve quality of life, improve function, improve mood, improve sleep, and reduce reliance on medication.
- Perhaps, the most distinct advantage of back surgery is that, it can target a variety of underlying deformities and injuries, that can’t be treated through noninvasive treatments.
- Surgical techniques allow the surgeon to mechanically adjust the different parts of the spine to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and to fix the damage.
- Surgically offers a satisfactory way to deliver long-term pain relief. Unlike pain medication, surgery addresses the root cause of the pain and physically fixes the problem of the back.
- Surgery restores mobility and prevents further damage to the spine.
When to see a doctor
Five signs it’s time to see a spine specialist.
- Chronic pain of varying degrees that lasts for 12 weeks or longer.
- The pain is getting in the way of living your life
- Foot or leg weakness or numbness with or without accompanying bladder or bowel issues
- You are unstable on your feet
- You have a limited range of motion
Common Spinal Conditions Requiring Surgery
Common spinal conditions often necessitate surgical intervention to address symptoms, prevent further damage, and enhance the overall quality of life for affected individuals. Here’s an overview of some prevalent spinal conditions that may require surgery:
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior. This can lead to nerve compression, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Surgical procedures such as discectomy or microdiscectomy may be recommended to remove the protruding disc material and relieve pressure on the nerves.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition often arises due to aging or degenerative changes in the spine. Surgical options may include laminectomy or spinal fusion to alleviate pressure and stabilize the spine.
Scoliosis
Degenerative Disc Disease
Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine, often diagnosed during adolescence. In severe cases, especially when the curvature progresses significantly or causes breathing difficulties, surgery may be recommended. Spinal fusion surgery aims to straighten the spine and prevent further curvature progression.
As discs between the vertebrae wear down over time, it can lead to degenerative disc disease. This condition may result in pain, instability, and limited mobility. Surgical procedures, such as artificial disc replacement or spinal fusion, are designed to address these issues and provide stability to the spine.
Spinal Fractures
Fractures in the vertebrae can occur due to trauma, osteoporosis, or other underlying conditions. Severe fractures may require surgical intervention, including vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty, to stabilize the fractured vertebrae and alleviate pain.
Discitis and Osteomyelitis
Infections affecting the intervertebral discs (discitis) or the bones of the spine (osteomyelitis) can lead to severe pain and complications. Surgical drainage or debridement may be necessary in conjunction with antibiotic treatment to address the infection.
Surgical decision-making is often influenced by the severity of symptoms, the extent of spinal damage, and the patient’s overall health. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms related to these common spinal conditions to consult with a qualified spine specialist who can determine the most appropriate course of action tailored to their specific needs.