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, this flow of information is interrupted. This condition is also called myelopathy. It causes a variety of problematic symptoms, including:
- Aching pain and stiffness
- Burning pain that spreads into the arms or legs
- Tingling sensations or numbness in the arms or legs
- Loss of sensation in the hands or feet
- Loss of muscle control or coordination
- Foot drop, or foot weakness that causes a limp
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Sexual dysfunction
What Is Spinal Decompression Surgery?
Spinal cord decompression is a type of surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Its aim is to create space around the spinal cord, eliminating compression and restoring normal function. This treatment provides complete and permanent relief from symptoms of nerve compression, letting patients get back to active lifestyles without pain.
What Are the Types of Spinal Decompression?
There are a few different types of spinal decompression surgery depending on where the spinal cord compression is located. These types include:
- Cervical spinal decompression: The condition to be treated is located in the neck.
- Thoracic spinal decompression: The condition to be treated is in the upper back.
- Lumbar spinal decompression: The condition to be treated is in the lower back.
Decompression can also be performed in a variety of different ways, including laminectomy, discectomy, foraminotomy, and spinal fusion. The NU-Spine neurosurgeon performs an extensive diagnosis process using physical exams, neurological evaluations, and medical imaging to plan the most appropriate treatment. He then helps the patient understand what options are available to them and what to expect from each procedure type.
How Serious Is Spinal Decompression Surgery?
Regardless of the approach, all spinal decompression surgery is serious. Spinal decompression is considered a major operation. It has a long recovery period and, like any other surgery, comes with some risks. These can include:
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Blood clotting
- Nerve damage
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Spine instability
- Implant issues
However, spinal decompression is a well-established treatment. After decades of medical advances, surgeons know how to mitigate the risks and ensure a successful operation. Decompression surgery is very safe in most cases. It is also far less serious than allowing spine conditions to go untreated. Spinal cord compression can get worse over time, leading to potentially permanent nerve damage. Undergoing an operation is almost always the better option to achieve lasting relief.
Reducing Risks from Spinal Decompression Surgery
Though spinal decompression is a proven procedure, its seriousness depends in part on the patient. There are several steps that patients can take to get the most out of their surgery, including:
Getting a Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgeries rely on advanced techniques to operate through a tiny incision. The surgeon uses an endoscope, or a small camera, to keep track of his work. While not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive surgery, this technique offers excellent benefits:
- Shorter hospital stays
- Less pain and bleeding
- Less risk of infection
- Higher success rates
- A faster full recovery
By working with a surgeon who is proficient in minimally invasive methods, patients can give themselves the best chance for an easy recovery with great results.
Following Recovery Instructions
Most surgical complications do not occur during the procedure itself, but during the recovery. To avoid issues and ensure the best possible results from spinal decompression, patients should be careful to follow the surgeon’s instructions for recovering at home. These instructions may include:
- Keeping the incision clean and protected
- Avoiding certain movements until the spine is healed
- Completing a full course of antibiotics
- Walking around daily to promote blood flow
- Monitoring the incision for signs of infection
- Scheduling follow-up appointments with the surgeon
If patients are not sure about the instructions, they should not hesitate to ask questions. The surgeon will help them understand the best way to recover safely.
Choosing the Right Spine Surgeon
Finally, patients should be sure to work with a spine surgeon they can trust. At NU-Spine, treatments are performed by the award-winning Dr. Branko Skovrlj. He is known around the world for delivering an exceptional level of care. Dr. Skovrlj specializes in minimally invasive procedures and uses the very latest innovations when performing them. He also treats patients with compassion, getting to know each one as an individual in order to build trust and confidence in his work.
Find the Highest Level of Spine Care Near You in New Jersey
Patients in need of spinal decompression surgery can transform their lives with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. We offer cutting-edge minimally invasive treatments to reduce risks and ensure the best outcomes for all our patients. Contact us today to find out how serious spinal decompression surgery is or to schedule an appointment at one of our locations near you in New Jersey.