Spine surgery is often seen as a last resort for those suffering from chronic back pain. While millions of people experience back problems in their lifetime, only a small fraction require surgical intervention. However, when conservative treatments fail, spine surgery may offer a solution for restoring mobility and reducing pain.
Dr. Dawn Tartaglione, DO, FACOS, Medical Director at Bayhealth Neurosurgery, sheds light on when spine surgery is necessary, the conditions it can treat, and the latest advancements in minimally invasive procedures.
Understanding Spine Surgery: When Is It Necessary?
Start with Your Primary Care Doctor
If you are dealing with persistent back pain, your first step should be consulting your primary care physician. In most cases, doctors recommend non-surgical treatments such as:
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Chiropractic care to help realign the spine
- Medications to reduce inflammation and alleviate muscle spasms
According to Dr. Tartaglione, if back pain lasts longer than six weeks and is accompanied by symptoms like shooting pain, tingling, or numbness in the legs, it may indicate a more severe spinal condition. At this stage, your doctor may order imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) and refer you to a spine specialist or neurosurgeon.
Not Everyone is a Candidate for Spine Surgery
Spine surgery is not always the best solution. Some patients benefit more from non-operative treatments, including:
- Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy (OMT): Hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve mobility.
- Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine approach that promotes healing by stimulating specific points on the body.
- Pain Management Therapy: This may include injections, nerve blocks, or radiofrequency ablation.
- Mental Health Strategies: Research suggests a strong connection between chronic pain and mental health. Techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation can help manage pain more effectively.
Spinal Conditions That May Require Surgery
While many back problems can be treated non-surgically, some conditions necessitate surgical intervention. According to Dr. Tartaglione, the following spinal conditions are often treated with surgery:
- Herniated Disc: When the soft cushion between vertebrae slips out, pressing on nearby nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerves, causing pain and mobility issues.
- Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips forward over another, leading to instability and pain.
- Spinal Fracture: Often caused by trauma or osteoporosis, severe fractures may require surgery to stabilize the spine.
- Spinal Tumors or Infections: In some cases, surgery is needed to remove tumors or infections affecting the spine.
Surgical intervention is only recommended when it provides the best possible outcome—reducing pain and enhancing the patient’s overall quality of life.
Modern Advances in Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
In recent years, spine surgery has advanced significantly with minimally invasive techniques. These procedures involve smaller incisions, reducing recovery time and minimizing risks. Benefits of MISS include:
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Faster recovery and shorter hospital stays
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- Minimal scarring
Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery: A Game-Changer
Bayhealth Neurosurgery utilizes cutting-edge technology such as the ExcelsiusGPS® and 7D Surgical FLASH™ Navigation System. These robotic-assisted systems enhance precision, improve patient safety, and allow for more accurate spinal corrections.
Is Spine Surgery Right for You?
If you have been battling chronic back pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatments, you may be a candidate for spine surgery. Start by consulting with your primary care doctor, who can guide you through imaging tests and referrals. The specialists at Bayhealth Neurosurgery provide individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition.
Contact Bayhealth Neurosurgery
Bayhealth Neurosurgery is located at 540 S. Governors Ave., Suite 100, Dover, DE 19904. You can reach them at 302-526-1470 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the most common reasons for spine surgery?
Spine surgery is typically performed to address conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, spinal fractures, and spinal tumors. It is recommended when conservative treatments fail to provide relief.
2. How do I know if I need spine surgery?
If you have persistent back pain lasting more than six weeks, accompanied by numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking, your doctor may recommend imaging tests to determine if surgery is necessary.
3. What are the risks of spine surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries risks such as infection, blood clots, nerve damage, or complications from anesthesia. However, minimally invasive techniques have significantly reduced these risks.
4. How long does recovery take after spine surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Minimally invasive spine surgeries typically allow patients to return to normal activities within a few weeks, whereas traditional surgeries may require months of rehabilitation.
5. Is spine surgery covered by insurance?
Most health insurance plans cover spine surgery if deemed medically necessary. Check with your provider to understand coverage details, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses.
