Spine Surgery

Spinal surgery includes all surgical procedures involving the neck (cervical spine), mid-back (thoracic spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). Spinal surgery is used to treat a number of different conditions, including spinal trauma, tumors, herniated disks, sciatica, scoliosis, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Because of the delicacy of the spine, spinal surgery is one of the riskiest forms of surgery. For the vast majority of patients, it is a last resort and is only used if other treatment options (typically drugs and physiotherapy) have failed.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. Most doctors advise their patients to try non-surgical treatment methods for three to six months before deciding to have surgery. Only if these fail will surgery be authorized.
  2. Before you have any type of back surgery, it will likely be recommended that you have an MRI so that doctors can get a better look at exactly what is happening with your spine.
  3. Before you go under the knife, it’s vital that you understand the risks you are taking.
  4. Over 90 percent of patients who have a herniated disk surgically repaired report full or nearly full relief from their symptoms. For more complicated spinal surgeries, the success rate is lower.
  5. In the days following spinal surgery, sitting can be very uncomfortable. It’s a good idea to find a firm, high chair (such as a dining room chair) to sit in. Couches and recliners are not recommended, as they require a large range of motion to sit in and stand up from.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Is surgery the right decision for treating my spinal condition?
  2. Will I be able to look after myself in the days following my surgery?
  3. How soon will I be able to return to work following my surgery?

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