Spine Surgery
Spine surgery is a surgical procedure of the spine or associated anatomy to treat a spinal medical condition.
What does spinal surgery involve?
Because causes, symptoms and the nature of a spine condition can vary, a neurosurgeon must tailor a surgical procedure to each patient.
A surgeon can perform surgery the traditional way or use minimally invasive techniques. Minimally invasive techniques involve a smaller incision and special microsurgical instruments. These techniques can shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of complications.
Most patients can begin to move again on the same day as their surgery or the following day. A physiotherapist may review a patient and advise on exercises to help them regain strength and heal.
Sometimes healthcare professionals will design a rehabilitation program to meet a patient’s needs. The goal of back and neck rehabilitation is to help a patient return to their highest level of functioning and independence, and to improve their overall quality of life.
What are the different types of spine surgery?
Some of the most common types of surgery involving the spine and associated structures include:
- anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- posterior cervical laminectomy with or without lateral mass fixation/fusion
- anterior cervical discectomy and disc replacement (arthroplasty)
What conditions does spine surgery treat?
It can treat conditions such as:
