Spine surgery addresses structural problems in the vertebrae, discs, and surrounding tissues; these issues may cause pain or limit mobility. When conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication do not achieve the desired results, surgical intervention may be beneficial. The consultation marks the beginning of your surgical process. You will meet with your surgeon to discuss your treatment options and what to expect.
Understanding Spine Surgery
Several spinal conditions may lead to the need for spine surgery. Herniated discs occur when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, compressing nearby nerves. Spinal stenosis involves narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Degenerative disc disease causes the cushioning between vertebrae to break down over time, and this leads to pain and reduced flexibility.
Scoliosis creates an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that may worsen without treatment. Spinal fractures from trauma can destabilize the spine and require surgical stabilization, and osteoporosis can be a cause of destabilization as well. Tumors growing on or near the spine may also necessitate surgical removal to prevent neurological damage.
Exploring Surgery Types
There are several types of spine surgery that treat various spinal disorders. Decompression surgery relieves pressure on compressed nerves, and it can relieve pressure on the spinal cord as well. This procedure removes bone spurs, herniated disc material, or thickened ligaments that are causing compression. Patients typically experience reduced pain and improved nerve function after recovery.
Spinal fusion joins two or more vertebrae together, and this helps to eliminate painful motion between them. Surgeons use bone grafts and metal hardware to create a solid bone bridge between vertebrae. While this reduces flexibility in the fused area, it provides stability and pain relief for many conditions.
Artificial disc replacement preserves motion in the spine while addressing disc problems. The surgeon removes the damaged disc, and then they insert an artificial one made of metal or a combination of metal and plastic. This option maintains more natural spine movement compared to fusion, though it’s not appropriate for all patients or conditions.
Preparing for Your Consultation
When you gather your medical records before the appointment, it helps your surgeon understand your treatment history. Bring imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans; gather reports from previous healthcare providers, too. A complete medication list, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs, gives your surgeon a full picture of your current care.
Write down your symptoms and when they started, and indicate what makes them better or worse. Note any activities you can no longer perform due to your condition. Prepare questions about the recommended procedure, recovery timeline, and potential risks.
Recovering After Surgery
Recovery timelines vary based on the type of procedure performed, and individual factors may make a difference as well. Pain management typically begins immediately, with medications adjusted as healing progresses. Your surgeon can discuss the specific recovery instructions and recovery expectations for your individual case.
Physical therapy can help significantly with rebuilding strength and mobility. Your care team will likely provide specific guidelines about the following:
- Weight restrictions and lifting limitations
- Acceptable movements and positions
- When to resume driving and work
- Warning signs that require immediate medical attention
Some procedures allow patients to walk the day after surgery, while others require more gradual mobilization. Full recovery may take several months, with improvements continuing for up to a year in some cases.
Learn More About Spine Surgery
Spine surgery offers relief for debilitating conditions when other treatments have not succeeded. Understanding the types of procedures available and what to expect during recovery can help you be prepared for your consultation and subsequent appointments; preparing your medical history and questions in advance makes the most of your appointment time. To learn more about how to prepare for spine surgery, consult your surgical provider.