Spine Surgery

Spinal surgery is used to correct abnormalities of the neck and back. The most common reason to have spinal surgery is to correct an abnormality that causes neck or back pain, and related extremity pain. Usually this is caused by arthritis of the discs and joints of the spine. Surgery for pain caused by arthritis of the disc and spine joints is never considered unless the patient has failed treatment with medications and physical therapy. When a spinal condition results in a loss of neurological function, like weakness or bowel or bladder dysfunction, surgery is carried out right away. Occasionally spine surgery is required to treat other conditions, such as spinal tumors, infections or fractures. The spine surgeon will use the patient’s complaints, physical examination and imaging of the spine to pinpoint not only the cause but its exact location along the 24 vertebral segments of the neck, upper back and lower back.

Spine surgery is carried out by an incision along the neck or back. The surgeon may have to remove bone from the spine in order to perform the surgical procedure. In some cases, fusion of the spine may be necessary. Fusion means creating a solid bony mass between two vertebral segments, rather than having mobility at the joints and discs between two segments. Fusion usually involves placing instruments, screws, rods and plates, in the spine.

Spine surgeons at the Los Angeles Brain and Spine Institute are experienced in basic and complex surgery of the neck and back for all conditions. After surgery your surgeon will coordinate your care with physical therapists and pain management physicians to insure your speediest recovery.