Spine reconstruction is performed by medical specialists who have a comprehensive understanding of the spinal column and spinal cord related disorders and conditions. Spine reconstruction techniques have evolved over the years and currently involve the use of cutting edge technology such as artificial disc replacement for movement preservation, minimally invasive techniques to provide relief for fractures or disc disease, robot assisted surgical procedures and other more traditional procedures.

Spine reconstruction may be recommended if any of the following have occurred: injury, trauma, infection, deformity, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, metastatic or primary tumors, axial skeleton pain, congenital abnormalities, herniated discs, fractures, vascular malformations, etc. Treatment options for spine reconstruction may involve: minimally invasive, artificial disc implementation, endoscopy, neuro-navigational technology, standard surgical options, computer aided stereotactic technology, kyphoplasty, percutaneous fusion techniques, etc.

Symptoms that may indicate spinal problems include pain in the area or surrounding area, numbness, the feeling of having a pinched nerve, loss of strength or a pins and needles feeling in the area. For those that have symptoms, a physician should be consulted. X-rays or a CAT Scan may be required to determine the source and severity of the problem.

Spine reconstruction most often involves a spine fusion operation or a replacement operation. With the spine fusion operation, the damaged or diseased vertebrae are removed. The remaining vertebrae are fused together. Most often the pain disappears in the short term, however, the patient may experience limited range of motion. Additional surgeries may also be needed with this method.

During a replacement surgery of vertebrae or discs, damaged vertebrae and/or discs are removed. These are replaced with artificial vertebrae or discs in order to allow the patient to maintain a full range of motion. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the patient and his/her symptoms.

Spinal reconstruction is sometimes recommended when severe spinal injury or degeneration occurs. For minor spinal pain or problems, physical therapy may be recommended in lieu of surgery. Physical therapy often involves strengthening muscles through stretching and strengthening exercises.

Lower back problems are most commonly associated with spine reconstruction. However, spine reconstruction may be utilized for upper back or neck issues. A diagnosis of a tumor, scoliosis, deformity and rheumatoid arthritis may all require spine reconstruction.

Recovery time required for spine reconstruction can vary widely depending upon how invasive the procedure is, the location of the procedure, and the extent of the procedure. Patients who have undergone any type of spine reconstruction should follow their surgeon and physician’s directions exactly during recovery time in order to maximize their results and minimize their downtime.

Doctor Finders is an innovative on-line tool that allows the general public to find the right doctor for their needs, identifying doctors by geographic area, specialties, procedures, and more.

Tags: , , , , ,

Filed under: Health

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!