Dr. Branko Skovrlj, MD

Doctor pointing to spinal disc on bone model

Lumbar Microdiscectomy vs. Endoscopic Discectomy: Key Differences

Lower Back / Lumbar & Sacrum / By

When pursuing care for a painful spine condition, most patients want the assurance that they will receive the best available treatment. Both lumbar microdiscectomy and endoscopic discectomy are proven procedures to treat lumbar disc herniation. Differences in their methodologies, however, result in changes in the expected recovery time and outcome. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute,

Lumbar Microdiscectomy vs. Endoscopic Discectomy: Key Differences Read More »

Concept art of spinal cord stimulator implant

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial vs. Permanent Implant

Miscelleanous / By

A spinal cord stimulator implant can provide relief for treatment-resistant pain. While choosing this route is a significant decision, it’s important to remember that these devices are not effective for everyone. This is why the treatment process begins with a trial period during which patients can test the therapy without making permanent changes. NU-Spine: The Minimally

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial vs. Permanent Implant Read More »

Senior person at home holding neck in pain

Cervical Laminectomy Risks and How MIS Lowers Them

Neck / Cervical / By

Cervical laminectomy can provide immediate and long-lasting relief from spine pain. Though patients may hesitate to seek treatment out of concern for the risks of surgery, advanced techniques have made laminectomies safer than ever. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides cervical laminectomy and other spine procedures at locations throughout New Jersey. Here, we discuss the

Cervical Laminectomy Risks and How MIS Lowers Them Read More »

Jessica smiling pain-free after successful minimally invasive neck surgery with Dr. Branko Skovrlj at NU-Spine

From Chronic Pain to Physical Freedom: Jessica’s Life-Changing Journey with NU-Spine

Neck / Cervical / By

For many people living with chronic pain, life is measured in “breaks.” A break to sit down while cooking dinner, a break from playing with the kids because the ache is too much, or even a two-year break from doing your own hair because you simply can’t lift your arms. This was the reality for

From Chronic Pain to Physical Freedom: Jessica’s Life-Changing Journey with NU-Spine Read More »

Close-up image of spinal fusion implant

Cervical Revision Surgery: Why Fusions Fail and How We Fix Them

Neck / Cervical / By

Patients plan for spine surgery with the expectation of relief. When pain continues after treatment, many patients may feel discouraged and overwhelmed. Fortunately, failed cervical fusion can be repaired. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, with locations throughout New Jersey, offers spinal revision surgery to help patients get back to pain-free living. Key Takeaways Cervical spinal

Cervical Revision Surgery: Why Fusions Fail and How We Fix Them Read More »

Doctors pointing at spine x-ray on computer screen

Corpectomy Explained: Restoring the Spinal Canal

Miscelleanous / By

The spinal cord is a nerve bundle that conveys sensory and motor information between the brain and the body. When the nerves become damaged or compressed, this function is impeded. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute performs spine procedures at locations throughout New Jersey. We relieve spinal compression with corpectomy surgeries. Here, learn more about

Corpectomy Explained: Restoring the Spinal Canal Read More »

Close-up of person with hand on sore neck

Who Is a Good Candidate for Cervical Microdiscectomy?

Neck / Cervical / By

When you are struggling with back pain, it is highly likely that surgery may eventually be discussed, and surgical treatments such as microdiscectomy may seem intimidating. For many patients, however, these procedures represent the smoothest path to recovery and pain-free living. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, provides cervical microdiscectomy and other spine procedures at locations in

Who Is a Good Candidate for Cervical Microdiscectomy? Read More »

Physician using medical model to explain spine surgeries

Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion: Pros and Cons

Miscelleanous / By

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 procedures for a wide variety of spine conditions at locations near you throughout New Jersey. Here, we discuss

Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion: Pros and Cons Read More »

Nervous patient lays in hospital bed while waiting for surgery

Understanding Spinal Decompression Surgery: How Serious Is It?

Miscelleanous / By

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,

Understanding Spinal Decompression Surgery: How Serious Is It? Read More »