In some cases, spinal surgery becomes a necessity to relieve severe pain or correct deformities or injuries in the vertebrae. Spinal surgeries are complex medical procedures aimed at improving the quality of life for patients by reducing pain or restoring the natural movement of the spine. In this article, we will cover the most prominent types of spinal surgeries and how they can help in treating various conditions.
What Are Spinal Surgeries?
Spinal surgeries are surgical interventions aimed at treating problems affecting the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, or nerves surrounding the spinal cord. These procedures are performed when non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or local injections fail to relieve pain or improve the patient's functional status.
These surgeries range from traditional open surgery to minimally invasive procedures and are used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal canal stenosis, vertebral fractures, or spinal instability.
The primary goal of spinal surgeries is to relieve pressure on the nerves, stabilize the vertebrae, and restore the structural balance of the spine, ultimately improving the patient's quality of life and alleviating chronic or acute pain associated with the condition.
Types of spinal surgeries
Vertebroplasty
This procedure is used to treat fractures caused by osteoporosis, where the surgeon injects a glue-like substance into the cracked vertebra to strengthen and support it. Kyphoplasty, on the other hand, involves using a small balloon to reshape the vertebra before injecting the material.
Read More : Spinal Curvature Treatment
Spinal Laminectomy
When spinal canal narrowing causes pressure on the nerves, this procedure is used to remove part of the vertebral arch or any bone spurs to relieve pressure, which helps alleviate pain and numbness.
Discectomy
This surgery involves removing part or all of the herniated disc that is pressing on the nerves, causing sharp pain. Sometimes, this procedure is combined with other surgeries like laminectomy.
Read More : Spinal Injection Cost:
Foraminotomy
This surgery involves widening the openings of the vertebrae to relieve pressure on affected nerves, which helps reduce pain and weakness.
Read More : Recovery time from spinal stabilization:
Nucleoplasty
Using laser technology, this procedure reduces the size of a herniated disc that is causing mild pressure on the nerves, reducing pain without major surgical intervention.
Read More : the cost of the vertebrae stabilization surgery
Spinal Fusion
This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae using metal devices or bone grafts, which may result in some loss of flexibility, but stabilizes the spine and prevents further damage.
Artificial Disk Replacement
This procedure involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one to restore natural movement, serving as an alternative to spinal fusion surgery.
When Is Spinal Surgery Necessary?
Below are the most common situations that may require spinal surgery:
- Failure of conservative treatment:
If symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, or muscle weakness persist for more than 6–8 weeks despite medication, physical therapy, or injections, surgery may become necessary.
- Nerve or spinal cord compression:
When there is clear compression of nerves or the spinal canal (as seen in cases like herniated discs or spinal stenosis), accompanied by neurological symptoms such as loss of sensation, limb weakness, or issues with bladder or bowel control, surgical intervention may be urgent.
- Spinal instability:
In some conditions like spondylolisthesis or fractures, abnormal vertebral movement can cause chronic pain or balance problems. In such cases, spinal fusion surgery becomes a key solution.
- Spinal deformities:
When there are structural deformities such as scoliosis (spinal curvature), especially in advanced cases or those with persistent pain, surgery may be the only option to restore alignment.
- Presence of tumors or infections in the spine:
If a tumor or infection is found pressing on the spinal cord or threatening the structural integrity of the vertebrae, surgery is required to remove the cause and stabilize the spine.
How Is the Condition Diagnosed Before Surgery?
Diagnosing the condition before undergoing spinal surgery is a crucial step to ensure the appropriate surgical intervention is selected and the exact cause of symptoms is identified. Diagnosis is based on a combination of medical history, clinical examination, and advanced imaging techniques that show the site of the injury and its impact on the nerves or vertebrae.
1. Detailed Medical History
The doctor gathers comprehensive information about the nature of the pain—when it started, how severe it is, whether it worsens with movement or rest, and whether it is accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, muscle weakness, or loss of balance.
2. Neurological Clinical Examination
The patient is evaluated through tests that assess muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes to determine if there is nerve compression or spinal cord dysfunction.
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
This is one of the most accurate tools for diagnosing spinal problems. It reveals detailed images of the discs, nerves, and surrounding tissues and helps identify herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or tumors.
4. X-Ray
X-rays are used to assess the alignment of the vertebrae, detect deformities, and identify fractures or bone degeneration.
5. CT Scan
Provides detailed images of the bones and vertebral structures and is sometimes used alongside MRI to get a comprehensive view of the condition.
6. Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG / NCS)
These tests are performed if symptoms suggest nerve damage. They measure nerve signal speed and help pinpoint the exact location of the issue.
Post-Spinal Surgery Tips for Proper Recovery
The post-operative phase is just as important as the surgery itself, as it plays a significant role in determining the speed and quality of recovery. Adhering to your doctor’s instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps prevent complications and gradually restore movement.
Below are the top tips to support recovery after spinal surgery:
1. Structured Rest Without Overexertion
Rest is essential in the first few days after surgery, but complete inactivity should be avoided. Light movement, as advised by the doctor, is encouraged to prevent blood clots and stimulate circulation.
2. Maintaining Proper Body Posture
Avoid sudden bending or twisting, especially when sitting or getting out
In the end, if you suffer from persistent back pain, spinal surgery may be the best option for relieving pain and restoring mobility. Consult your doctor to understand the available options based on your health condition.
