Spine surgery encompasses a diverse range of surgical interventions designed to address conditions affecting the spine, a crucial component of the musculoskeletal system that provides structural support and facilitates movement. Common reasons for spine surgery include degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, fractures, deformities (such as scoliosis), and tumors. The goal of spine surgery is to alleviate pain, stabilize the spine, and improve overall spinal function.
There are various types of spine surgeries, each tailored to specific conditions and patient needs. Discectomy and laminectomy procedures involve removing a portion of a herniated disc or the lamina (bony arch of the vertebra) to relieve pressure on nerves. Spinal fusion is a surgical technique where two or more vertebrae are joined together to stabilize the spine, often used for conditions like spondylolisthesis or degenerative disc disease.
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has emerged as a notable advancement, utilizing smaller incisions and specialized tools to access the spine, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues and promoting faster recovery. MISS techniques are often employed for procedures like microdiscectomy and decompression.
Complex spine surgeries, such as spinal instrumentation and corrective surgeries for deformities, involve the use of implants like rods, screws, and cages to stabilize the spine and restore proper alignment.