Back surgery is often the best option for patients who are looking for relief from chronic pain and limited mobility resulting from conditions of the spine. After recovery, most individuals can look forward to a life with less or no pain, increased mobility and better productivity. Different surgical options are available according to the type of repair that is needed on the spine. Here is a list of some of the most common spine surgeries.
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Laminectomy
Laminectomies work to relieve pressure on compressed nerves along the spinal column by removing displaced bones, ligaments or bone spurs. A decrease in pain and weakness are benefits derived from the procedure, which is often accompanied by a spinal fusion to increase spinal stability.
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Spinal Fusion
The stability of the spine is reinforced after a spinal fusion, which joins the vertebrae to limit movement of the bones. This surgery helps patients who are suffering from pain and weakness due to overstretching of spinal nerves.
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Foraminotomy
Nerves are given more space after foraminotomy, which is performed by cutting away at the sides of the vertebrae where the nerves exit the spinal column. The result of the procedure is decreased pain from nerve compression. The surgeon may also concurrently perform a spinal fusion with foraminotomy to strengthen the vertebral column.
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Discectomy
Damaged vertebral discs are removed during discectomy allowing compressed nerves to be released. During the procedure, the whole disc or part of a disc may be removed. Many times other surgeries are performed at the same time as discectomy that serve to fortify the spinal column.
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Disc Replacement
An artificial disc is inserted after removal of a damaged disc during this procedure. This surgery is popular with patients because it can often serve as a substitute for a spinal fusion. There are two types of disc replacement: lumbar artificial disc replacement and cervical artificial disc replacement. Both allow patients to enjoy better mobility than that which is found after spinal fusion.
To find out if you are a candidate for one of the above surgical procedures, reach out to Dr. Bae at The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration. Involved in some of the most cutting-edge advancements in spine surgery, he will be able to review both traditional and modern treatment options, ensuring that you are provided with the best possible treatment for a positive outcome. For more information or to learn more about Dr. Bae and the Santa Monica spine surgeons at The Spine Institute, call (310) 828-7757.