Laser back surgery can help patients find relief from the symptoms caused by many different degenerative spinal conditions. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a spinal condition, consult with your physician to find out if you might be a candidate for surgical treatment. This article will discuss some of the degenerative spinal conditions that can generally be treated surgically. Keep in mind that most patients are required to undergo conservative, nonsurgical treatment for several weeks or months before they’ll be advised to consider surgery. That said, it’s a good idea to know what you could expect several months down the road, just in case you’re one of the unfortunate few whose symptoms persist in spite of conservative treatment.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease involves the gradual deterioration of the intervertebral discs, which are the spine’s “shock absorbers.” The discs not only absorb the impact that’s placed on the neck or back when an individual moves or bears weight, but they also ensure that pressure from the impact is evenly distributed in all directions. These tasks can take their toll, and the discs can eventually undergo a number of degenerative changes, including loss of elasticity and water content. As the discs begin to undergo these changes, they become susceptible to herniating and bulging, both of which can cause neural compression in the spine.

Laser back surgery for degenerative disc disease begins with a very small incision in the neck or back and the insertion of a series of tubes to create access to the spine without needing to dissect musculature. Next, the affected intervertebral disc is identified and the surgeon uses a laser to carefully remove the portion of the disc that is pressing against a spinal nerve. The disc is then cauterized, the tube and surgical tools are removed, and the incision is closed.

Facet Disease

Like the intervertebral discs, the fact joints (the joints that connect adjacent, articulating vertebrae) can begin to break down over time. Specifically, the facet joints can lose their cartilaginous lining, causing patients to experience pain when they bend or twist their necks or backs. In an effort to alleviate this pain, the body can develop osteophytes (bone spurs) to limit mobility and stabilize the spine. While osteophytes may relieve pain by preventing the joints from articulating, they can often do more harm than good by intruding upon the spinal canal and causing neural compression.

Laser back surgery for facet disease begins much like surgery for degenerative disc disease. Once the surgeon has access to the affected joint, he or she uses a laser to deaden the nerves that travel through that particular joint. This can prevent the patient from experiencing pain and discomfort when the arthritic joint articulates. Next, the surgeon identifies the osteophyte that has invaded the spinal canal, and uses a laser to remove the bony growth and decompress the affected spinal nerve.

More Information

If you’d like to learn more about laser back surgery and whether or not it can be used to treat your degenerative spinal condition, be sure to speak with your physician.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to laser back surgery.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications and is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including laser back surgery. http://www.wfla.com/story/22642657/laser-surgery-proves-successful-for-patienst-with-back-problems-in-tampa-bay

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to laser back surgery.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: laser back surgery