DISCECTOMY

Discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove a portion or the entire intervertebral disc that is causing compression or irritation of spinal nerves. The intervertebral discs are the cushion-like structures located between the vertebrae in the spine, which provide flexibility and shock absorption.

A discectomy is commonly performed to treat a herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc. A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like material (nucleus pulposus) of the disc protrudes through the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and puts pressure on nearby spinal nerves. This can result in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.

Recovery after a discectomy varies depending on the extent of the surgery, the specific technique used, and individual factors. Physical therapy and exercises may be prescribed to help regain strength and mobility. It is important to follow post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon and attend follow-up appointments to monitor the progress.

As with any surgical procedure, discectomy carries risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, spinal fluid leakage, or complications related to anaesthesia. The specific risks and benefits of discectomy should be discussed with a spine specialist who can evaluate your condition and provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. The team will be able to provide you with more detailed information about your specific situation and help you understand what to expect.

LAMINECTOMY

Laminectomy, also known as decompressive laminectomy, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves by removing a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina. The lamina is the back part of the vertebra that forms the roof of the spinal canal.

Laminectomy is commonly used to treat conditions that cause spinal canal narrowing, such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs, which can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots and lead to pain, numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.

Recovery after laminectomy varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual patient. Physical therapy and pain management techniques may be recommended to aid in the healing process and regain strength and mobility. It is important to follow post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon and attend follow-up appointments to monitor the progress.

Laminectomy, like any surgical procedure, carries risks and potential complications, such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury, spinal fluid leakage, or complications related to anaesthesia. The specific risks and benefits of laminectomy should be discussed with a spine specialist who can evaluate your condition and provide personalized guidance.

It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. The team will be able to provide you with more detailed information about your specific situation and help you understand what to expect.

SPINAL FUSION SURGERY

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed to join two or more vertebrae in the spine to create a solid, stable structure. It is commonly used to treat conditions that cause instability or abnormal movement of the spine, such as spinal fractures, spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis), spinal tumours, spinal infections, or degenerative disc disease.

During spinal fusion surgery, the surgeon aims to eliminate motion between the affected vertebrae, which can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

After the surgery, the bone graft gradually fuses with the adjacent vertebrae over time, creating a solid bone mass. The fusion process typically takes several months, during which the patient may need to follow specific post-operative instructions, including limitations on activities and physical therapy.

Spinal fusion surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury, non-union (failure of fusion), adjacent segment degeneration, or complications related to anaesthesia. It is important to have a thorough discussion with a spine specialist to understand the benefits, risks, and potential alternatives specific to your condition before considering spinal fusion surgery.

It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. The team will be able to provide you with more detailed information about your specific situation and help you understand what to expect.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY

Minimally invasive spine surgery refers to a group of surgical techniques that aim to treat spine conditions with minimal disruption to the surrounding tissues, muscles, and bones. These procedures utilize advanced surgical instruments, imaging guidance, and specialized techniques to access and treat spinal conditions through smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery.

The primary goals of minimally invasive spine surgery are to reduce surgical trauma, minimize blood loss, decrease post-operative pain, shorten hospital stays, and expedite recovery. While specific techniques may vary depending on the condition being treated, some common minimally invasive spine surgery procedures include:

• Microdiscectomy: This procedure is performed to remove a portion of a herniated or damaged disc that is pressing on spinal nerves, causing pain and other symptoms. Using specialized instruments and a microscope or endoscope for enhanced visualization, the surgeon accesses the spine through a small incision and removes the targeted disc material.
• Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion: This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae in the lumbar spine to provide stability and alleviate pain caused by conditions like degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis. The surgeon uses specialized instruments to access the spine through small incisions and places bone grafts, screws, rods, or interbody cages to promote fusion.
• Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty: These minimally invasive procedures are performed to treat vertebral compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis or trauma. Vertebroplasty involves injecting bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it, while kyphoplasty uses a balloon-like device to create a space and then injects the cement.
• Endoscopic Spine Surgery: This technique uses an endoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light, to visualize and treat spine conditions. It can be used for discectomy, decompression of spinal stenosis, or fusion procedures. The surgeon makes small incisions and inserts the endoscope to access and treat the affected area of the spine.

Minimally invasive spine surgery offers potential advantages over traditional open surgery, such as reduced tissue damage, less scarring, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. However, not all spinal conditions or patients are suitable candidates for minimally invasive approaches. The decision to pursue minimally invasive spine surgery is made on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like the specific condition, patient anatomy, and surgeon expertise.