Spine neurosurgeons are specialists in diagnosing and treating problems with the bones, discs, and nerves of the spine. They use advanced surgical techniques and personalized care to restore function, relieve pain, and improve your quality of life. Here are some of the most common conditions a spine neurosurgeon treats and how they handle them:
Herniated Discs
With a herniated disc, the soft inner part of the spinal disc tears or ruptures through a tear in the tough outer part called the annulus fibrosus. Pressure on nearby nerves may increase, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness. Your neurosurgeon may recommend conservative treatments like physical therapy. They may also perform surgical treatments like a discectomy, which is the removal of some of the damaged discs. In severe cases, they may fuse two vertebrae and stabilize the spine using spinal fusion. Early treatment helps prevent long-term damage, and many patients are able to get better quickly and return to normal life.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis occurs when there is a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord. Pain, tingling, or numbness in the legs, arms, or back may occur as a result of this condition. Neurosurgeons may suggest conservative treatments like physical therapy, pain management, or the use of medication. If these treatments aren’t effective, you’ll need surgery. The neurosurgeon removes parts of the vertebrae in a laminectomy, creating more space for the spinal cord.
Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures can occur with trauma or if the patient has a condition such as osteoporosis that causes marked pain and instability. Neurosurgeons treat these fractures using both nonsurgical and surgical methods. Bracing, physical therapy, and rest allow the spine to heal in most mild cases. Serious fractures can necessitate procedures such as vertebroplasty, injecting cement to stabilize the bone, or spinal fusion surgery. The purpose of these treatments is to decrease pain, straighten the spine, and forestall complications such as nerve injury and the potential loss of function and mobility.
Spinal Tumors
Pain, neurological problems, and instability may result from tumors that develop inside or near the spinal cord. Before choosing treatment, neurosurgeons will first determine if the tumor is benign or malignant. Unless the tumor is pressing on the spinal cord or nerves, they usually will not operate and instead remove as much of the tumor as they can. Other kinds of malignant tumors may need radiation or chemotherapy. Treatment aims to lower the pressure on the spine and improve neurological function. It also prevents the recurrence of tumors while keeping as much healthy tissue intact as possible.
Degenerative Disc Disease
With degenerative disc disease, spinal discs wear out due to age or injury, leading to pain and stiffness. A spine neurosurgeon will advise about conservative options such as physical therapy, medication, and steroid injections. In severe cases, the condition may require surgery, such as a discectomy or spinal fusion. These surgeons seek to remove damaged discs and stabilize the spine. Artificial disc replacement uses advanced techniques to restore spinal flexibility and shorten recovery time while managing pain and improving mobility.
Contact a Spine Neurosurgeon
Spine neurosurgeons can offer both surgical and nonsurgical solutions specifically suited to individual needs. Recurring back pain should be dealt with quickly and effectively by a qualified practitioner. If you have back pain, numbness, or chronic spinal issues, see a spine neurosurgeon for treatment options.