Spine Surgery: Answers You Should Have?

Spine surgery is a very serious matter. It’s not something you should undertake lightly, or without first doing your research. This blog will explore some of the questions you should be asking before you undergo spine surgery. We will touch on topics that will give you clarity about the situation.

Q1. How do you know when you need spine surgery?

There are a few key signs that may indicate you need spine surgery. If you experience numbness, weakness, or tingling in your arms or legs, this could be a sign of nerve compression and may require surgery to alleviate the pressure. Similarly, if you have pain that radiates from your back or neck into your arms or legs, this also may be an indication of nerve compression.

Other key signs that you may need spine surgery include:

-Loss of bowel or bladder control

-Inability to stand or walk

-Intense pain not alleviated by medication or other treatments

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a spine specialist to determine whether surgery is the best course of treatment.

Q2. What are the major differences between traditional spine surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery?

There are several key differences between traditional and minimally invasive spine surgery. To start, traditional spine surgery generally requires a large incision to access the spine. This means that there is a greater risk of scarring and infection. In contrast, minimally invasive spine surgery uses smaller incisions, which can minimize the risk of complications.

Another major difference is that traditional spine surgery often involves the fusion of the vertebrae, while minimally invasive procedures may not require this. Fusion can help to stabilize the spine and relieve pain, but it also carries a risk of complications such as hardware failure or pseudarthrosis (non-union of the bones). Minimally invasive procedures may use alternative methods to achieve stabilization without fusion.

Finally, recovery times vary depending on the type of procedure performed. Traditional open-back surgery often requires a lengthy hospital stay and a period spent recovering at home. Minimally invasive procedures tend to have shorter recovery times, allowing patients to return home the same day or within a few days after surgery.

Q3. When do you need to undergo spine surgery? What are the conditions that lead to surgery?

• Slipped disc that is not improving on its own

• Your spinal cord is being pressed by bone spurs in your spine (which are frequently brought on by arthritis).

• A weakness-causing degenerative spinal ailment called stenosis (narrowing of the protective bone canal around the spinal cord)

• Your arms and legs are weak or numb

• Difficulty moving or using your hands

• Inability to regulate your urine or bowels because of a back-related nerve issue.

• Back discomfort coupled with a high temperature, or both, may indicate a spinal infection.

• Backbone that has been broken or dislocated

• Tumor in the spinal cord

Q4. What should you look for in a good spine surgeon?

When considering a spine surgeon, you should look for someone who is experienced and has a good track record. You should also make sure that the surgeon is accredited by a renowned institution. Furthermore, you should ask the surgeon about his or her experience with the particular type of surgery you are considering.

Q5. How long is a spine surgery?

Many factors go into how long a spine surgery will take. The type of surgery, the location of the surgery, and the severity of the condition being treated are all important considerations. In general, however, most spine surgeries take between two and four hours to complete. This does not include the time spent in pre-operative or post-operative care, which can add several hours to the overall length of the procedure.

Q6. What are the precautions post-surgery?

Precautions after spine surgery, are important to take, to avoid infection and promote healing. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Keep the surgical incision clean and dry.

• Follow any instructions you are given for wound care, such as changing dressings or bandages.

• Avoid strenuous activity or lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for at least six weeks. This allows your incision time to heal and decreases the risk of re-injuring yourself.

• Gradually increase your activity level as too much activity too soon can delay healing.

Conclusions

Undergoing spine surgery is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. There are

Recovery from spine surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure you had done. One of the best hospitals for spine surgery is Sarvodaya Hospital in Faridabad which offers state-of-art treatment and has experiences spine specialists. You get in touch with them to get the best guidance.