Spine Surgery Types: What You Need to Know
Spine surgery is often recommended when back or neck problems don’t respond to medication, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. Thanks to modern medical advances, there are now various types of spine surgeries designed to target specific issues—each tailored to the patient’s condition.
Let’s take a closer look at some of
the most common spine surgery types:
1.
Discectomy
A discectomy involves removing a
portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve. It's commonly
used to relieve pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs caused by nerve
compression.
2.
Laminectomy
This surgery removes part of the
vertebral bone (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It’s
often performed to treat spinal stenosis.
3.
Spinal Fusion
In this procedure, two or more
vertebrae are permanently connected to eliminate motion between them. It’s
typically used to treat instability, severe arthritis, or deformities like
scoliosis.
4.
Foraminotomy
This surgery widens the openings
where nerve roots exit the spine to reduce nerve compression and relieve
symptoms such as pain or tingling.
5.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Instead of fusing vertebrae, this
procedure replaces a damaged disc with an artificial one, preserving spine
movement and reducing recovery time.
6.
Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty
Used to treat spinal fractures
caused by osteoporosis, these procedures involve injecting bone cement to
stabilize and strengthen the affected vertebrae.
When
to Consider Spine Surgery
If you're dealing with chronic back
pain, nerve issues, or mobility problems that haven’t improved with
non-surgical methods, it may be time to consult a neurosurgeon. A
qualified neurosurgeon can evaluate your condition, explain the best
surgical options, and guide you through a safe and effective treatment plan.
Final
Thoughts
Understanding the types of spine
surgery can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. Whether
it’s a minimally invasive procedure or a more complex operation, working with
an experienced neurosurgeon ensures you receive the care you need to get back
to a pain-free life.
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