If your physician has recommended that you undergo open back surgery to treat degenerative disc disease, then you likely have a few questions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions related to open back surgery. Hopefully this article will provide the information you need. Otherwise, make an appointment with your spine specialist.

Q: How is open back surgery for degenerative disc disease performed?

A: The following surgical approach is often taken:

A surgeon makes a large incision in a patient’s back or abdomen near the affected intervertebral disc, dissecting musculature and other soft tissues.

– The affected disc is removed in its entirety.

– An intervertebral cage is positioned in place of the disc.

– Surgical hardware is used to connect the intervertebral cage to the adjacent vertebrae.

– Bone grafting material is inserted into the intervertebral cage, and will eventually fuse the cage to the adjacent vertebrae.

– The incision is closed and the patient is set to begin a long and arduous rehabilitation.

Q: Are there any complications associated with open back surgery?

A: As with all operations, open back surgery can present the risk of complications, especially failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). Patients with FBSS continue to experience pain and discomfort – sometimes to a greater degree – following open back surgery. Patients also face the risk of blood loss, infection, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

Q: How can I know for sure if I need open back surgery?

A: Before consenting to open back surgery, you’d be wise to receive a second or third opinion from a reputable spine specialist. Some patients discover that their diagnosing physicians overlooked viable nonsurgical treatments, and many eventually receive the relief they need from these previously unutilized treatments.

Q: Are there any alternatives to open back surgery?

A: Some patients are candidates for minimally invasive procedures as alternatives to open back surgeries. An endoscopic procedure is generally performed as follows:

– The surgeon makes a very small incision (often less than one inch long) in the patient’s back.

– A series of tubes, each slightly larger in diameter than the last, is fed through the incision. This process gently moves musculature and soft tissues aside so the surgeon can access the spine.

– Surgical tools and an endoscope (small camera) are inserted into the tubes.

– The surgeon uses a laser to remove the portion of the disc that has entered the spinal canal.

– Occasionally, the surgeon may need to remove the disc in its entirety, which can also be accomplished using a laser and other surgical tools. The surgeon then inserts a supportive implant into the empty disc space and inserts bone grafting material. Tiny hardware is then used to connect the implant to the adjacent vertebrae.

– The incision is closed and the patient is able to return home the same day.

– Most patients are able to return to daily activities within a matter of weeks, and some even experience immediate relief.

Q: How do I Know if I’m a Candidate for a Minimally Invasive Procedure?

A: The only way to know for sure is to consult with your physician. Contact your doctor today to schedule an appointment.

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 patient education and advocacy.

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 patient education and advocacy. http://www.healthgrades.com/group-directory/arizona-az/scottsdale/laser-spine-institute-341f7180

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 patient education and advocacy.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: patient education and advocacy