There are phrases that we do not want to hear and “you need a spine surgery” is definitely one of them. Fortunately, today medicine has many non-invasive surgery options that have low risks and quick recovery. So fear not, here we will tell you everything about the risks, recovery time, types of non-invasive surgeries and post-operative care.
What risks does spinal microsurgery have?
As patients we would love for the specialist surgeon to assure us that there is no risk. Now, although we know that it is impossible to eliminate risk, what can be done is reduce it to a minimum.
In the past, there were no surgical techniques that exist today to perform minimally invasive surgeries. For this reason, in the past it was always necessary to make multiple incisions to reach the spine, putting the patient at risk of long-term surgeries. In addition, patients had to endure extensive and painful recoveries, with severe scarring as a result.
Fortunately, today with the minimally invasive surgeries or microsurgeries, the traumatology specialists can reduce risks to a minimum. Through these surgical interventions it is possible, through small incisions, to obtain the same results as with traditional surgeries and reduce surgery and recovery times. Although it is not always feasible to perform microsurgery, when it is, we will recommend the patient opt for this option.
Minimally invasive spine surgery techniques
There are many pathologies that can be treated through non-invasive techniques. Through the application of the advanced spinal endoscopy is it possible to treat injuries like lumbar disc herniation and canal stenosis.
The microdiscectomy, on the other hand, is indicated in patients with herniated disc lesions with clinical or MRI agreement, vertebra or invertebral disc rupture, persistent sciatica, single space or where conservative therapeutic treatments have not worked.
These two techniques are currently applied in the best spine expert trauma clinics. To have a better understanding of these non-invasive surgeries, we will continue with an overview of both.
Advanced spine endoscopy technique
Through the technique of minimally invasive advanced endoscopy spine surgery, pathologies such as herniated disc and canal stenosis can be treated. This microsurgery only requires an incision of less than 1 cm, through which an endoscopic camera with an optical system will be inserted in order to perform the procedure. spinal canal examination. The endoscopic camera is connected to a high definition screen.
Spine microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy is the advanced spine microsurgery technique commonly used by trauma specialists to remove herniated discs. It is the most practiced method in spine surgery.
This procedure is usually performed through a 3-4 cm incision over the area to be treated. Using this technique, we proceed to remove both the muscle and the tissue until we reach the posterior vertebral lamina where we locate the yellow ligament.
Once reached, it is opened where the epidural space can be distinguished and the neurological structures observed. Subsequently, the nerve root is mobilized to see the herniated disc material and other structures, such as bone osteophytes, that may be causing the compression.
How long does spinal microsurgery last?
The Advanced spinal endoscopy usually lasts 75 minutes. This time is divided into two different phases, one of approximately 30 minutes and another of 45 minutes. During this first phase of the operation, anteroposterior and lateral projections are used to exactly identify the approach to be carried out and the entrance of the endoscopic optical camera.
Once the level to be treated has been radiologically identified, the second phase begins. Through an incision of approximately 1cm, we proceed to the surgical phase of this technique.
The duration of microdiscectomy instead it is usually around 2 hours. For this technique, special surgical material and optical instruments are used that influence the duration.
How long does it take for a patient to recover from spine surgery?
The recovery after minimally invasive spine surgeries is very fast. One of the factors that favors recovery is that the incisions made are minimal, which is why they do not require the placement of a drain.
In most patients, the pain disappears immediately after surgery. But on some occasions, a tingling or numbness sensation occurs which will gradually disappear in a few weeks.
Hospital discharge is received on the same day and the patient can walk immediately after discharge. Daily activity is recovered during the first week and, if you practice sports, this can be resumed after the sixth week.
Recovery after spinal surgery
After performing any surgery, it is important to avoid intense physical exertion and keep the wound clean and dry. Exercising in a moderate way is always positive; it is essential to maintain the back and abdominal muscles with good muscle tone. Additionally, maintaining a good weight and healthy habits also help avoid back pain.
Many patients come to the clinic after suffering from unbearable pain for a long time for fear of undergoing traditional surgeries. With the help of the advanced spine microsurgeries These injuries can be treated quickly, painlessly and with a quick recovery. Make an appointment at our Madrid trauma clinic and we will treat your trauma pathology with the most effective surgical technique.
