Are you suffering from severe back pain? Have you exhausted other options to fix the problem? If so, you may want to look into back surgery.
This surgery is no laughing matter. In fact, there are different types of back surgery, each with its own benefits and risks. So, if you’re considering back surgery, it is crucial to know which type is right for you.
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need more than one surgery.
So how do you decide? Let’s explore different types of back surgery to determine if one may be right for you.
Table of Contents
Spinal Cord Surgery
There are many different kinds of back surgery that a spine specialist, Dr. Hunt, may perform. These back surgeries can be performed to relieve pain, correct deformities, or stabilize the spine.
In addition, spinal cord surgery is a type of back surgery that is performed to treat conditions affecting the spinal cord. This type of spine surgery can be used to treat conditions such as spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and tumors of the spinal cord.
Thoracic Surgery
There are different types of back surgery, and each type has its own risks and benefits. Thoracic surgery is one type of back surgery. This type of surgery is used to treat problems in the upper back, including herniated discs and spinal fusion.
Thoracic surgery is generally considered safe, but it does have some risks, such as infection and blood loss.
Laminectomy
A laminectomy is a type of back surgery that involves removing a small section of the lamina, which is a thin layer of bone that covers the spinal canal.
This type of surgery is typically performed to treat spinal stenosis, which is a condition that causes the spinal canal to grow narrower and puts pressure on the spinal cord.
Laminectomy can also be done to treat other conditions, such as herniated discs and spondylolisthesis.
Discectomy
This involves removing a herniated disc from the spine. This can be done through a small incision in the back, or through a larger incision if the disc is located in a difficult-to-reach area.
Additionally, recovery from a discectomy is typically fairly quick, and most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. Lastly, be sure to discuss all of your options with your back surgeon so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
Foraminotomy
A foraminotomy is a type of back surgery that is performed in order to widen the foramen, or openings, between the vertebrae. This surgery is often used to treat foraminal stenosis.
It is a condition that occurs when the foramen becomes narrowed, resulting in pressure on the nerves. Foraminotomy can also be used to treat herniated discs, bone spurs, and other conditions that cause compression of the nerves in the spine.
Comfort Starts with Back Surgery
Now that we’ve reached the end, note that the best type for you will depend on the underlying reason for your discomfort. If you are suffering from back pain, talk to your doctor to see if back surgery might be an option for you.
Each type of back surgery has its own risks and benefits. Your doctor will help you decide which type of surgery is right for you.
If you are considering spinal surgery though, or any other form of medical intervention it’s important you choose a hospital you can trust.
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