How to be Prepared for Spine Surgery?
How to Mentally Prepare Yourself for the Upcoming Surgery?
The first question that comes to us when thinking about spine surgery is why and when the patient needs it.
It is usually necessary in the following circumstances:
a) if the patient has persistent lower back discomfort.
b) If the pain continues after rehabilitative therapies such as physical therapy, massage, and heat therapy, regular pain medication is ineffective.
c) Even injections in the back failed to provide relief to the person suffering.
d) Another issue that the patient may be experiencing is weakness or numbness in his limbs or arms.
Under the above circumstances, when treatment by the local physician has been unsuccessful spine surgery becomes imminent.
Different Types of Spine Surgery
Different types of surgeries are performed to correct Spinal problems. Depending upon the physical, mental state of the person and considering any other health issue like diabetes, blood pressure etc. the orthopedist gives his recommendation for surgery.
Some of the significant types of spine surgeries suggested by orthopedists are :
- Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty
- Spinal laminectomy
- Discectomy
- Foraminotomy
- Nucleoplasty
- Spinal fusion
- Artificial disk replacement
Today the doctors have the option to choose between the traditional /open spine surgery or minimally invasive spine surgery. With the help of modern facilities like 3D scanning, CAT scan etc. minimal invasive surgery that causes less tissue damage, lower infection risk, early hospital discharge and quick patient recovery is preferred.
However, not all patients can undergo minimally invasive spine surgery. The orthopedist takes the final decision based on the health condition of the patient.
Things to Consider Before Spine Surgery
It is essential to note that before undergoing surgery, counselling of the patient is necessary. The spine surgery is fraught with risks, but only negligible patients feel pain after recovery or develop any complications.
The time taken to recuperate from spine surgery is around two months, after which a patient can gradually return to his healthy life and walk independently without support.
The success rate of spine surgery is 90% with patients feeling no pain or weakness in their arms or legs.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, physical therapy and rest under the supervision of the doctor helps in fast recovery after spine surgery.
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