Spine Surgery

Spine surgery is used to correct problems with the spinal bones (vertebrae), disks or nerves of the lower back (lumbar spine).

The spine consists of bones (vertebrae) separated by soft cushions (disks). Pressure on the nerves that branch off the spinal cord can produce pain, numbness, tingling or weakness and may be caused by the following:

• Injured disks that bulge out (slipped disk) between the vertebrae
• Bone injuries (fractures)
• Narrowing of the space between vertebrae (spinal stenosis)
• Growths (tumors)
• Pockets of infection (abscesses)
• Pockets of blood (hematomas)

Patients with spinal pain in the neck or back are usually treated conservatively before spine surgery is considered. Bedrest, traction, anti-inflammatory medications (nonsteroid and steroid), physical therapy, braces and exercise are often prescribed.

Maintaining good health, muscle strength, and body posture with appropriate rest and exercise help prevent unnecessary strain on the spine and muscles.

Spine surgery is done while the patient is under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). An incision is made over the troubled area. The bone that curves around and covers the spinal cord (lamina) is removed (laminectomy) and the tissue that is causing pressure on the nerve or spinal cord is removed.

The hole through which the nerve passes may be enlarged to prevent further pressure on the nerve. Sometimes, a piece of bone (bone graft) or metal rods (such as Harrington rods) may be used to strengthen the area of spine surgery.