Do you or someone you know have back pain that does not go away? Spine surgery can be a good option for people with severe back pain. There are different types of surgeries and techniques to choose from. Talking with your spine specialist can help you decide the best choice for you. Understanding spine surgery can help you feel more confident and prepared if it is ever needed.
Here’s more on this topic.
Types of Spine Surgery
Here are the different types of surgery that a spine specialist can help with:
Discectomy
A discectomy is a type of spine surgery in which the doctor removes part of a disc in the spine. The discs between the bones in your back work like cushions, helping to absorb shock.
Sometimes, these discs can slip out of place or get damaged. When this happens, the discs might press on nearby nerves. This may result in pain in your back, legs, or even arms.
By removing the part of the disc causing the problem, the spine doctor can relieve the pressure on the nerve. The pain often goes away in this procedure.
Laminectomy
Laminectomy is another common type of spine surgery. In this procedure, the doctor removes a piece of bone called the lamina. This bone forms part of the bones that make up your spine and covers the spinal canal.
If the spinal canal becomes too narrow, it can squeeze the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain and other issues. By removing the lamina, more space is created for the nerves. This surgery can help reduce pain and improve movement.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a surgery in which the surgeon joins two or more bones in the spine so they can heal into a single solid bone.
This procedure is often used when the spine is unstable, such as from a broken vertebra, severe arthritis, or a slipped disc.
The surgeon uses metal rods, screws, or bone grafts to hold the bones together while they heal.
This surgery stops the bones from moving against each other, which can help reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement is a newer type of spine surgery. Instead of removing a damaged disc and fusing the bones, the doctor replaces the disc with an artificial one.
The artificial disc is designed to mimic the natural movement of a real disc. This replacement can help keep the spine flexible and reduce pain.
Surgeons use this method for people with disc problems who want to maintain more normal spine motion after surgery.
Foraminotomy
A foraminotomy is a surgery that enlarges the space where a nerve root exits the spinal column.
Conditions like arthritis can narrow this space over time, resulting in nerve compression and pain.
During a foraminotomy, the surgeon removes the bone or tissue pressing on the nerves, allowing them more room to move. This surgery can help relieve pain, numbness, and weakness.
Microdiscectomy
A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat herniated discs.
Instead of making a large cut, the surgeon makes a small incision and uses a microscope to see the disc and nerves.
Then, the surgeon removes the damaged part of the disc, relieving pressure on the nerve. This approach usually results in shorter recovery times and less pain after surgery compared to traditional open surgery.
Techniques Used in Spine Surgery
The two techniques that a spine specialist may use include open surgery and minimally invasive surgery.
Open surgery means the doctor makes a large cut to see and reach the spine. Spine surgeons have been using this type of surgery for a long time. It lets doctors see everything clearly but usually takes longer to heal.
Minimally invasive surgery, on the other hand, uses small cuts and special tools. A camera helps the doctor see inside the body. This type of surgery usually has less pain and a quicker recovery time.
Outcomes of Spine Surgery
The outcomes of spine surgery may include:
Pain Relief
Many people feel less pain after spine surgery. This can help them do everyday activities without too much discomfort.
Improved Movement
Many people find it easier to move around after surgery. They might be able to walk, sit, and stand for longer periods without pain.
Risks
Like all surgeries, spine surgery has risks. These can include infection, bleeding, or problems with the anesthesia.
Sometimes, the surgery might not help as much as expected, or new pain might develop. Your spine specialist will discuss these risks with you.
Recovery Time
Recovery time can vary. Some people feel better in a few weeks, while others might take several months.
Your spine specialist will also recommend physical therapy, which helps speed up recovery and improve the results.
Top-Notch Spine Specialist in Rochester Hills, MI
If you’re looking for an experienced spine doctor in Rochester Hills and southeast Michigan, look no further than Ahlgren Spine. Dr. Bradley Ahlgren is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for your spinal injury and back pain.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or use our appointment request form.
Let Dr. Ahlgren be your trusted spine specialist. We look forward to serving you!
