All About Spine Surgery

Spine Surgery - Overview

A person might have several concerns whilst pursuing spine surgery. Should you opt for surgery in the first place or would a non-surgical method be more appropriate? If necessary, is it better to go with traditional surgery or minimally invasive spine surgery?

When do you need Spine Surgery?

Many patients with spine problems can be treated with no surgical intervention. Pain Management, Lifestyle changes & over-the-counter medicines can help a person recuperate from his/her spine problems. If the problems persist & there is no relief, then surgery becomes a good option.

Spine surgery is a common procedure that is performed to treat various conditions of the spine. The most common reason for spine surgery is to relieve back pain. However, there are many other reasons why someone may need to have spine surgery. These can include things like spinal deformity, spinal infections, trauma, and spine tumours. In some cases, degenerative diseases of the spine such as stenosis or herniated disks may require surgical treatment.

When it comes to having spine surgery, it is important to consult with a team of experienced surgeons. This way you can ensure that you will receive the best possible care and treatment.

There are two main types of spine surgery: open (traditional) and minimally invasive. Both techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to discuss with your surgeon which type of surgery is right for you.

Difference between Traditional Spine Surgery & Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Open (traditional) spine surgery involves making a large incision along the backbone in order to access the bones of the spine and the spinal cord. This type of surgery is usually more invasive and requires a longer recovery time. However, it may be necessary in cases where the spine is severely damaged or deformities are present.

Minimally invasive spine surgery involves making a small incision and inserting a tube into the spine. Through this tube, the surgeon can insert small surgical instruments to work on the spine. Minimally invasive surgery is less invasive and often has a shorter recovery time. Additionally, it may be associated with a lower risk of complications.

Ultimately, the decision of which type of surgery to undergo depends on the individual case and should be made in consultation with a spine surgeon.

Types of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

1. Microscopic Spine Surgery - Microscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses a small microscope to visualize the surgical area. This type of surgery is often used to treat herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and other conditions of the spine. The main benefit of microscopic spine surgery is that it can be performed with smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. This results in less damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues, which can lead to less pain and a quicker recovery.
2. Endoscopic Spine Surgery - Endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses small incisions and tubular systems in combination with an endoscope to visualize the surgical field. ESS can help preserve normal range of spine mobility post-operatively and provides patients with a quicker recovery time and less recurring pain than traditional spine surgery methods. In some cases, the ESS procedure can be performed using regional anesthesia instead of general anesthesia, decreasing overall medical risk. There are 2 types of procedures involved in it - Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy & Interlaminar Endoscopic Discectomy.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is a surgical procedure that uses small incisions and minimizes muscle damage. MISS offers several potential benefits over traditional open spine surgery, including –

• Faster healing times
• Less blood loss, and
• Reduced risk of infection.

Additionally, patients who undergo MISS often experience less postoperative pain and require less rehabilitation. These procedures are becoming increasingly popular as patients seek to minimize their recovery time and maximize their cosmetic results.

If you are considering spine surgery, be sure to discuss the option of MISS with your surgeon to see if it is right for you.

Conditions treated using MISS Techniques

MIS procedures are commonly used to treat a

• Degenerative disc diseases,
• Herniated discs,
• Lumbar spinal stenosis, and
• Other spinal deformities.

In some cases, these procedures can also be used to stabilize the spine or treat vertebral compression fractures. Additionally, MIS procedures may be used in conjunction with other treatments for spinal infections or tumours.

Overall, MIS procedures offer a minimally invasive approach to treating a variety of conditions that can cause back pain or other problems.

About the Centre for Endoscopy & Microscopic Spine Surgery at Gleneagles Global Hospital, Lakdikapul

Gleneagles Global Hospital, Lakdikapul is a centre of excellence for spine surgery. Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy & Microdiscectomy procedures are done on a regular basis with excellent patient outcomes.

• Zero to minimal damage to bone or muscle
• High Success Rate
• Zero to minimal complications
• Fast Recovery & World Class Technology