Spine Surgery

What is Spine Surgery?

Spine surgery is performed to treat various disorders that affect the spine with its vertebrae, discs, nerves, and surrounding tissues. In this surgery, the doctor changes the anatomy of the spine. The primary goals of spine surgery are to alleviate pain, restore normal function, and improve quality of life. 

Spine surgery is usually recommended when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and injections, have failed to provide proper relief. The surgery is mainly performed for conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and spinal fractures.

How Do You Know If You Need Surgery?

The following symptoms can help you decide if you need a spine surgery:

• There is persistent or severe back pain that limits your daily activities and does not respond to medications and other conservative treatments, 
• You feel consistent numbness or weakness in your arms or legs because of nerve compression,
• It gets difficult for you to stand or walk properly due to spinal instability or deformity,
• There is a loss of bowel or bladder control because of severe nerve damage (cauda equina syndrome),

What Are the Different Types?

There are different types of spine surgery available. The specific type is decided based on the specific condition being treated and the location of the problem:

• Discectomy: In this type, a portion of a herniated or bulging disc is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
• Laminectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the bony arch (lamina) of a vertebra to create more space for the spinal nerves and relieve compression.
• Spinal Fusion: In this type, the surgeon joins two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, metal implants, or a combination of both. 
• Artificial Disc Replacement: This procedure involves replacing a damaged or degenerated disc with an artificial implant to maintain motion and reduce pain.
• Vertebroplasty And Kyphoplasty: In this type, bone cement is injected into a fractured vertebra to stabilize the bone and alleviate pain.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: In such procedures, smaller incisions are made for the surgery and specialized instruments are used to minimize tissue damage and speed up recovery time. 

How Should I Prepare?

To prepare for spine surgery, follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions carefully. 

• Stop smoking, and avoid certain medications that may increase bleeding risk. 
• Arrange for help at home during recovery, and prepare your living space for ease of movement. 
• Discuss any questions or worries with your surgeon beforehand.
• Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated. 
• Get plenty of rest before the procedure, and arrive at the hospital well-prepared with the necessary documents and personal items. 
• Trust in your surgeon's expertise and maintain a positive outlook for a successful recovery.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, spine surgery also comes with some risks, such as:

• Infection at the site of surgery or in the bloodstream,
• Bleeding or blood clots formation, 
• Nerve or spinal cord damage, which may result in weakness, numbness, or paralysis,
• Failure of the bone to heal properly (pseudoarthrosis) after spinal fusion,
• Implant-related complications, such as breakage or loosening,
• Persistent pain or stiffness in the back or neck,
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia or medications.

What Are the Advantages?

Spine surgery offers many potential benefits for patients with spinal disorders. For example, 

• They feel a significant reduction in back or neck pain, 
• They get improved mobility and flexibility in the spine,
• The surgery also provides relief from nerve compression symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the arms,
• The surgery also corrects spinal deformities, such as scoliosis or kyphosis,
• Patients feel enhanced ability to perform daily activities and enjoy hobbies,
• The surgery also prevents further damage or deterioration of the spine. 

For many patients, the advantages of spine surgery outweigh the risks. The procedure can help them regain their independence and lead a more active, pain-free life.

Cost

The cost of spine surgery can differ based on the type and complexity of the surgical procedure, the hospital and the package of pre- and post-operative care provided by the healthcare provider.

However, the general estimation of the cost of spine surgery is around Rs. 1.5,00,000 to Rs. 8,00,000 However, the actual cost may differ based on your particular situation and the hospital you choose.

At Apollo Spectra, our skilled spine surgeons provide exceptional care using the latest techniques and personalized treatment plans. If you are experiencing spinal problems and believe surgery may help, consult our experts to discuss your options.