Dr. Branko Skovrlj, MD

Physician using medical model to explain spine surgeries

Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion: Pros and Cons

Surgery can provide permanent relief for spine pain that resists other treatment. With so many proven procedures available, however, it can be difficult to know which approach is best. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides advanced spine proceduresย for a wide variety of spine conditionsย at locations near you throughout New Jersey. Here, we discuss

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Nervous patient lays in hospital bed while waiting for surgery

Understanding Spinal Decompression Surgery: How Serious Is It?

What Is the Spinal Cord? The spinal cord is a thick bundle of nerves that relays information between the brain and the body. It carries sensory information to be processed by the brain. It also allows the brain to send instructions that govern organ function and motor ability. If the spinal cord becomes compressed, however,

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Group of seniors having yoga class in studio

Minimally Invasive Laminectomy: What You Need to Know

What Is a Minimally Invasive Laminectomy? A laminectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the lamina, the section of bone that forms the back of the vertebra. It encloses the spinal canal, protecting and supporting the spinal cord. By removing it, surgeons create additional space around the spinal cord. This is an effective solution to

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Athletic person in nature experiencing backache

Is Lumbar Microdiscectomy Usually Successful?

Understanding Spine Structure The strength and flexibility of the spine depend on its structure. The spine is composed of several interlocking bones, called vertebrae, which work together as a single unit that can bend and twist. Separating each pair of vertebrae are spinal discs. These are tough pads of tissue with soft, jelly-filled cores that

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X-ray image showing spine curved by scoliosis

What Is the Best Treatment for Scoliosis in Adults?

Understanding Spine Structure The spine, or backbone, naturally has a slight curve toward the front and back. This S-curve provides optimal support to the body while creating space around organs for unhindered function. From the front, however, the spine should appear perfectly straight. A healthy spine does not bend to either side, maintaining the bodyโ€™s

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Patient shaking spine surgeonโ€™s hand in medical office

What to Do When Someone Is Reluctant to See a Spine Surgeon

Spine Surgery: Sooner Is Better Than Later If your loved one is resistant to the idea of spine surgery, they may insist that it is not necessary. This is not always true, as many spine conditions are progressive. That means the longer they wait, the worse the symptoms will get. Examples of progressive spine conditions

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