Knowing What You Need: A Quick Guide to Spinal Surgery Types

A huge portion of the U.S. population suffers from some form of back pain. It’s actually one of the most commonly cited reasons for skipping work. At some point in your life, you may suffer from back pain. But when it becomes a chronic, unmanageable type of pain, this is when spinal surgery may be something to consider.

Looking to learn more about the different spinal surgery types to suit your particular problem? Check out the rest of this blog for more…

spinal surgery types

When is it Time to Consider Spinal Surgery?

Relief from many forms of back pain and spinal problems can happen without surgery. Some of the most common include physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, steroidal injections, and certain types of exercise. But some conditions may call for a more long-term solution in the form of spinal surgery. Here’s when you might consider a spinal procedure:

  • Disc rupture — also known as a herniated disc
  • Spinal stenosis — a narrowing of the spinal column that exerts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
  • Vertebral fractures — often caused by osteoporosis or injury to the spine
  • Degenerative disc disease — caused by damage to the spinal discs due to aging
  • Spondylolisthesis — when one or more bones within the spinal column slip out of place

In some cases, spinal surgery may be necessary due to tumors on the spine, a spinal infection, or cauda equina syndrome, but these instances are very rare.

Understand Your Options: 6 Spinal Surgery Types to Consider

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), these are some of the top-recommended spinal procedures to combat lumbar back pain and the above conditions.

1. Spinal Laminectomy

This procedure is also known as spinal decompression and is particularly effective in cases of spinal stenosis. A surgeon removed the bony walls of the vertebrae and any bone spurs along with that. The aim is to open the spinal column and create a little more space in order to remove pressure on the nerves.

2. Discectomy

A discectomy is a surgical option for those suffering from a herniated disc which puts pressure on the nerve root, causing pain. During this procedure, the removal of the herniated disc happens to alleviate pressure and pain within the spinal cord.

3. Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty

If you or someone you know suffers from osteoporosis, we recommend these two procedures. Basically, they aim to repair compression fractures within the vertebrae, which are caused by this degenerative condition. The procedure involves the injection of a glue-like cement that aims to strengthen the vertebrae of the spine.

4. Foraminotomy

This is yet another procedure recommended for those with a ruptured disc in the spine. In this procedure, a surgeon will enlarge the bony hole exit of a nerve root in the spinal canal. This prevents bulging discs and joints which tend to thicken with age from pressing on nerve roots.

5. Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

This procedure is worth considering if you suffer from natural degeneration of the spine and disc space. It’s also a good option if you have spinal disc fracture due to injury. The procedure starts by approaching the lumbar spine from the side. Through a small incision, a portion of bone and disc is removed. Then replacement of the implant takes place. Stainless steel or titanium screws and rods are then added for extra stability within the area.

6. Spinal Fusion

This is an option for those suffering from degenerative disc disease, spinal fractures, scoliosis, and other spinal deformities. Basically, a spinal disc is removed between two or more vertebrae. The adjacent vertebrae are then fused using bone grafts or a metal device, secured by screws.

Find the Best Spinal Surgeon in Tampa Bay

We hope this blog on the different spinal surgery types has been helpful. If you or a loved one is considering spinal surgery, Moreno Spine and Scoliosis in Tampa Bay is your go-to.

We treat a plethora of spinal problems and would be happy to solve yours. Schedule your spinal check-up with us today, and begin your road to recovery…