Spinal abnormalities or pain can be treated with surgery. Know the procedures and preparations that must be done through this discussion.
Surgery can be an option to treat spinal disorders or abnormalities. However, before undergoing surgery, patients must know the procedures and conditions for undergoing spinal surgery.
You can get information about the terms and procedures for spinal surgery by listening to the following explanation.
Who Can Perform Spine Surgery?
Described by dr. Astrid Wulan Kusumoastuti, spinal surgery is divided into several types. Usually, the type of spinal surgery is chosen according to the complaints or conditions of the patient himself.
“People who may need spinal surgery, for example, sufferers of HNP (hernia nucleus pulposus), spinal stenosis, and various other spinal disorders,” said dr. Astrid.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), some of these conditions require surgery or spinal surgery:
- Spinal discs herniated or ruptured. This condition can be characterized when one or more of the discs that protect the spine are damaged.
- Stenosis is characterized by narrowing of the spinal column. This condition puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis is characterized when one or more vertebrae slip out of place.
- Spinal fractures caused by injuries or fractures due to osteoporosis.
- Degenerative disc disease or spinal disc damage due to age.
In rare cases, back pain can be caused by a tumor, infection, or a nerve root problem called cauda equina syndrome.
Doctors may recommend spinal surgery to reduce pain and prevent further complications.
Depending on the condition being treated by the surgeon, the goals of surgery can be categorized as follows:
- Decompression of neurological structures.
- Stabilizes the spine.
- The combination of decompressing neurological structures and stabilizing the spine.
- For long-term goals, spinal surgery can reduce pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.
Spinal surgery may be more risky than some other surgeries. Because the location of the human spine is close to the nervous system.
One of the serious risks of spinal surgery is paralysis and infection.
If the surgery is successful, the patient’s recovery time may take longer.
Some patients may experience permanent loss of balance and flexibility. Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor regarding spinal surgery.
Spine Surgery Procedure
Before performing spinal surgery, the doctor will ask the patient to take an X-ray examination. X-rays are done so that the doctor can find out the location of the problematic spine.
In the operating room, the doctor will ask the patient to lie on a special table or bed to be given a general anesthetic injection. The patient will fall asleep during the spinal surgery process.
To be able to access the spine, the doctor will cut parts such as the stomach, back, neck, or throat. The surrounding muscles will also be stretched.
After successfully accessing the problematic part of the spine, the doctor will insert a tool such as a screw or metal. This tool is useful for repairing or combining the problematic bone parts.
After the spinal problem is corrected, the doctor will close the incision with stitches. The stitches in the spine will be wrapped in a sterile bandage to prevent infection.
Preparation Before Spine Surgery
Described by dr. Astrid, there are several things that need to be prepared for postoperative recovery. Here’s what the patient needs to do:
- Live a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced nutritious diet, getting enough rest, and exercising regularly.
- Consult a doctor first to seek information about the procedure and postoperative recovery.
- Invite the family to help with activities after spinal surgery. You may need time to get back to your normal activities.
- The patient may need slip-on shoes or sandals. Patients also need objects and furniture that are easily accessible during recovery.
Treating Pain After Spine Surgery
Spinal surgery can cause postoperative pain. Your doctor may prescribe postoperative painkillers.
Medications, such as opioids, corticosteroid drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and local anesthetics may be prescribed by the doctor to reduce postoperative pain.
But you should be wary of opioid drugs. The drug should be used with caution to avoid addiction and side effects that can be life-threatening. Always take the medicine according to the doctor’s advice.