Your back and spine are a complex system of bones, muscles, and ligaments that support your body and allow you to move. However, this also makes them vulnerable to a variety of spinal conditions. These conditions can cause pain, stiffness, and weakness, making it difficult to do the things you love.
There are many spine treatments that can relieve pain, restore function, and help you recover and live a full and active life. In this article, we discuss the surgical options for different conditions affecting the spine. Learn how these procedures work and when they may be the right option for you.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that joins two or more vertebrae (the bones in your spine) together. This is done to stabilize the spine and reduce pain caused by various conditions that affect the spine.
Spinal fusion surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the back to access the spine. Once the spine is exposed, the surgeon will remove the damaged disc or bone. The surgeon may then place a bone graft between the vertebrae to help them fuse together. The surgeon will then use screws, rods, or plates to hold the vertebrae in place while they fuse.
When is Spinal Fusion Necessary?
This is not a first-line treatment for any of the conditions listed above. It is typically only recommended when other spine treatments, such as physical therapy and medication, have failed to provide relief. Spinal fusion is used to treat a variety of spinal conditions, including:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Scoliosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Herniated disc
- Spinal tumor
- Spinal fracture
- Spinal infection
Discectomy
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc ruptures and leaks out. This can put pressure on the nerves in the spine, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. A discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove this damaged disc.
A discectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia. The spine surgeon will remove the herniated disc material and some of the surrounding bone to create more space for the nerve.
When is Discectomy Necessary?
A discectomy is used to treat herniated discs, which can occur in any part of the spine. However, it is most commonly performed in the lower back and neck.
Your doctor will recommend a discectomy for a herniated disc if other spine treatments aren’t effective for you. This procedure may also be recommended if the herniated disc is causing progressive nerve damage or if it is located in a critical area of the spine.
Laminectomy
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part of the lamina, the bony roof of the vertebra. It creates more space for the spinal cord and nerves in the spinal canal. This can help to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, which can cause pain, numbness, and weakness.
When is Laminectomy Necessary?
Similar to other surgical spine treatments, a laminectomy is typically recommended when other treatments aren’t effective. This procedure may also be recommended if there is a risk of permanent nerve damage.
A laminectomy is used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the spine, including:
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated disc
- Spondylolisthesis
- Spinal tumors
Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression surgery is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This can be done by removing bone, ligaments, or other tissues that are putting pressure on the spine. With surgery, more space can be created for the spinal cord or nerves, which can relieve pain, numbness, and weakness. It can also improve spinal stability and alignment.
When is Spinal Decompression Necessary?
Spinal decompression is a major surgery typically recommended when other spine treatments don’t alleviate a condition’s symptoms. It is an effective spine treatment for various conditions, including:
- Spinal stenosis
- Spinal tumor
- Herniated disc
- Spinal fractures
- Spondylolisthesis
Choosing the Best Spine Treatments For You
If you are considering surgery for a spinal condition, it is important to choose the best treatment option for you. This can be a difficult decision, as there are many factors to consider, such as the type and severity of your condition, your overall health, and your lifestyle.
Your doctor can help you choose a surgical spine treatment that is compatible with your needs. They can also give you more information about these surgical procedures and what to expect.
Spine Treatments in Rochester Hills, Bad Axes, and Royal Oak, MI
Choosing the best surgical spine treatment for your condition is an important decision. Take the time to learn about your options and consider your individual needs. Be sure to talk to your doctor and discuss what treatment plan will work best, so you can keep living a healthy and active lifestyle.
Our expert orthopedic surgeon at Ahlgren Spine Orthopaedic Surgery specializes in providing excellent spine treatments, including spinal surgery. We welcome you to visit and get quality healthcare for your spinal condition. For any questions, feel free to call our office at (248) 215-8080. You can also book a consultation through our online appointment form.
