If you are suffering from any spine disorders and looking for spine surgery in Chennai, then Bharath Orthopaedics is the perfect destination. Dr. L. Bharath is a senior spine surgeon in Chennai who is internationally trained with 15 years of experience in orthopaedic surgery.
What does Spine Surgery Mean?
The spine aids in providing structural support and also acts as a passage to the important nerves in the human body. When anyone experiences damage or dislocation to any of the discs, consulting the best spine surgeon in Chennai would really help to get immediate treatment.
Spine surgery in Chennai is a complex process that involves orthopaedic and neurological expertise besides outstanding standards of care. This is exactly what we provide at Bharath Orthopaedics with spine surgery physiotherapy and healing for a rapid recovery.
Anatomy of a Disc
An intervertebral disc is a strong ligament to connects one vertebral bone to another. The discs are the shock-absorbing cushions that are located between each vertebra of the spine.
Each disc has a strong outer ring of fibers, the annulus fibrosus, and the nucleus pulposus.
The annulus is the strongest area of the disc to help the ligament connect with each vertebra together. The nucleus, or center of the disc, is hydrated often to serve as the main shock absorber.
Spinal Disc Problems
Disc Injury
The annulus can either tear or rupture anywhere around the disc and gives severe back pain. If it tears, and when no disc material is ruptured, an annular tear can be excruciating as the outer fibers carry pain signals frequently.
It takes time to heal with scar tissue over a timespan but it is more prone to future tears or injury. If the annulus tears, the central nucleus can squeeze. It is a piece of the disc from the center or exterior portion that breaks off and extends outward.
A disc herniation is defined as a displacement of disc material that is beyond the normal confining disc space. The other terms include disc bulge, disc protrusion, disc herniation, ruptured disc, and slipped disc which simply implies that the disc material has left the normal disc space leading to severe back pain. This can be diagnosed by an orthopaedic surgeon or spine specialist by treating it with simple back pain tests benefits of spine surgery.
Back Pain
Back Pain due to a herniated disc may be diagnosed by the best spine surgeon in Chennai after a complete history and comprehensive physical exam by spine specialists & spine doctors. In addition, several diagnostic tests can be used. Imaging studies at the Virginia Spine Institute are usually the first step in understanding spine pathology.
These include bending and standing X-rays for evaluating spinal stability, alignment, and disc space height. Your Spine doctor will determine whether additional tests are needed. An MRI is the standard imaging test to assess disc and nerve pathology. An EMG is used for identifying the particular nerves affected and to assess the potential level of nerve impairment.
Spondylosis
Degenerative Disk Disease (DDD) or Spondylosis is the sluggish disintegration of the plate between the vertebrae. Generally, it doesn’t require a medical procedure. It is normally made do with calming prescription, physiotherapy for knee pain, and exercise for hamstring strain.
Slipped Disc
At the point when the inward, gentler piece of the circle swells out through a shortcoming in the external piece of the plate, it is known as a prolapsed plate.
Different Types of Spine Surgery
When problems occur with the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spinal fractures, spine surgery may be necessary to correct the issue and relieve pain and discomfort. There are several different types of spine surgery, each with its own benefits and risks.
- Discectomy: This is a common procedure used to treat a herniated or bulging disc in the spine. During a discectomy, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the nerves and reduce pain.
- Spinal Fusion: This procedure is used to treat conditions that cause instability in the spine, such as scoliosis or spinal fractures. During a spinal fusion, the surgeon uses screws, rods, or plates to connect two or more vertebrae together, creating a single, solid bone.
- Laminectomy: A laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by spinal stenosis. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the lamina, a portion of the vertebral bone, to create more space in the spinal canal.
- Foraminotomy: This spine surgery in Chennai is used to treat a pinched nerve in the spine. During a foraminotomy, the surgeon removes a portion of the bone around the intervertebral foramen, the opening through which nerves exit the spinal cord.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: This is a newer surgical option for treating a herniated disc. Instead of removing the damaged disc and fusing the vertebrae together, an artificial disc is inserted between the vertebrae to maintain motion and flexibility in the spine.
- Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty: These surgical procedures are used to treat spinal fractures which are caused by osteoporosis or other conditions. During vertebroplasty, a special cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it. During kyphoplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the vertebra and inflated to create space, then the cement is injected to stabilize the bone.
- Cervical Disc Replacement: This procedure is used to treat a herniated disc in the neck. Similar to artificial disc replacement, an artificial disc is inserted between the vertebrae to maintain motion and flexibility in the neck.
- Microdiscectomy: This is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a herniated disc. During a microdiscectomy, a small incision is made, and the surgeon uses specialized tools to remove the damaged portion of the disc.
Spine Surgery Procedures Followed
Under the supervision of our senior specialist Dr. L. Bharath, we at Bharath Orthopaedics provide improved Spine Surgery and spine treatments for a herniated disc for treating pains without surgery using the following methods:
- Physical therapy
- Epidural steroid injections
- Psychological treatments
- Medication
Physical Therapy
The best spine surgeon in Chennai prescribes physical therapy for calming the pain and inflammation, to improve core strength, spinal strength, mobility, and coordination, and help achieve routine activities which are termed as a range of motion assessment to determine the severity of the patient’s impairment.
Epidural Steroid Injections
An epidural steroid injection is a common procedure to treat irritations of the spinal nerves. It is termed ESI where a small amount of ‘cortisone’ is injected into the spinal canal.
Cortisone is a strong anti-inflammatory medicine that is given to ease pain and decrease nerve inflammation caused by irritated nerve roots. The beginning of the nerve or the nerve root gets irritated by a bulging intervertebral disc, disc contents, or ruptured disc or bone spur, which directly touches the spinal nerve.
Dr. L. Bharath, the best spine surgeon in Chennai states that the treatment is not always beneficial but provides short-term help to decrease the pain.
Psychological Treatments
Coping, relaxation, and distraction are the different skills that are used to help patients to manage their chronic low back pain.
Medication
Certain medications are used after spine surgery in Chennai to alleviate spinal pain, which includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or Aleve, nerve medications, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and opioids.
This method is commonly followed by the best spine surgeon in Chennai and can be used to control pain, inflammation, muscle spasm, and sleep disturbance. These can involve steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, pain medications, and muscle relaxers to help to control pain and reduce inflammation.
Benefits and Risks of Spine Surgery in Chennai
Each of these spine surgery options has its own benefits and risks, and the decision to undergo surgery should be made in consultation with a qualified spine surgeon. If you consult the best spine surgeon in Chennai, they can help you with the following benefits that include:
- Pain relief.
- Increased movements.
- Faster recovery.
- Free from muscle damage.
- Quality of life is improved.
- Ability to get back to ordinary life.
Likewise, like any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and anesthesia complications. Specific risks associated with spine surgery include spinal cord injury, paralysis, and failure of the surgical hardware used to stabilize the spine. It is important to discuss potential risks with a qualified spine surgeon prior to undergoing any surgical procedure.
Cost for Spine Surgery in Chennai
Many patients are concerned about the cost of spine surgery. Bharath Orthopaedics’ mission is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible. Costs for spine surgery in Chennai vary depending on the severity and type of your condition.
What is the success rate of Spine Surgery?
The success rate of spine surgery in Chennai can vary depending on several factors, including the specific procedure performed, the underlying condition being treated, the skill and experience of the surgeon, and the overall health of the patient. It’s important to note that success rates are generally reported in terms of improvement in symptoms or reduction in pain rather than complete resolution of the condition.
Some common spine surgeries, such as discectomy (removal of a herniated disc), laminectomy (removal of the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves), or spinal fusion (joining two or more vertebrae together), have generally high success rates. These procedures often provide significant relief from pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.
However, success rates can vary. For instance, the success rate of a discectomy for a herniated disc causing leg pain (sciatica) is typically reported to be around 80-90%, with most patients experiencing relief from leg pain. On the other hand, the success rate for spinal fusion surgeries can range from 60% to 90% depending on the specific indication.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified spine surgeon who can evaluate your specific condition and provide you with more accurate information about the success rate and potential risks associated with the surgery. They will consider your individual circumstances to provide personalized advice.
Is Spine Surgery a permanent surgery?
In many cases, spine surgery is considered a permanent procedure. The goal of spine surgery is typically to address a specific condition or problem in the spine, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or spinal instability. The surgical intervention aims to alleviate symptoms, stabilize the spine, and promote healing.
While spine surgery in Chennai can provide long-term relief and improvement in many cases, it’s important to understand that it may not completely eliminate the possibility of future issues. Factors such as the underlying condition, the patient’s overall health, lifestyle choices, and the natural aging process can contribute to the potential for ongoing or new spine-related problems.
It’s worth noting that some spine surgeries, such as spinal fusion, involve permanently joining two or more vertebrae together, which creates a stable and fused segment of the spine. Other procedures, such as discectomy or laminectomy, aim to remove or relieve pressure on specific structures and may not involve permanent changes to the spine’s anatomy.
Are there any alternatives to Spine Surgery?
Yes, there are several non-surgical alternatives to spine surgery that can be considered depending on the specific condition and the severity of the symptoms. These alternatives aim to relieve pain, improve function, and manage the underlying spinal condition through conservative treatment methods. Some common non-surgical alternatives include:
Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises, stretching, and manual therapy techniques can help improve strength, flexibility, and posture. Physical therapy may also involve modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and pain medications may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation associated with spinal conditions. In some cases, corticosteroid injections can be administered to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments and spinal manipulations performed by qualified professionals can help relieve pain and improve spinal alignment.
Pain Management Techniques: Various pain management techniques such as acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and radiofrequency ablation can be used to alleviate pain without surgical intervention.
Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, weight management, proper nutrition, and ergonomic modifications can play a significant role in managing spinal conditions and reducing symptoms.
Bracing: In certain cases, a back brace or orthosis may be recommended to provide support and stability to the spine, particularly for conditions like scoliosis or spinal fractures.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these alternatives can vary depending on the specific condition and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in spine conditions to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific situation.
FAQ
When Do You Require Spine Surgery in Chennai?
It is advisable to consult the best spine surgeon in Chennai for proper spine surgery.
1. If you have persistent pain in both arms and legs.
2. If you feel numbness, muscle weakness, tingling, or loss of reflexes in extremities.
3. If you have any increased pressure or irritation of nerves.
4. If you have had extreme neck or back pain with a herniated disc.
5. If you have failed traumatic spine injuries.
What About Conservative Non-Surgical Treatment?
Spine surgery is usually recommended if certain non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy and medication fail to relieve symptoms. Surgery is typically only contemplated when the specific cause of the pain can be identified, such as in instances of scoliosis, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis.
What is spine surgery?
Spine surgery refers to a surgical procedure that aims to correct abnormalities or injuries in the spine, which is the backbone that supports the body and protects the spinal cord. The surgery may involve the removal of damaged or herniated discs, stabilization of the spine with screws and rods, decompression of compressed nerves, or correction of spinal deformities such as scoliosis.
The procedure of spine surgery in Chennai may be performed for a variety of conditions, including degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, tumors, fractures, and infections. The goal of spine surgery is to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve the patient’s quality of life.
What are the risks involved in spine surgery?
Like all surgical procedures, spine surgery carries some risks. The severity and likelihood of these risks can vary depending on the type of procedure, the patient’s health status, and other factors. Some potential risks of spine surgery in Chennai include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. Additionally, patients may experience persistent pain, weakness, or numbness after surgery, and in rare cases, may require additional surgery to correct these issues.
Spine surgery in Chennai may also carry a risk of complications specific to the type of procedure, such as spinal cord injury, spinal fluid leak, or hardware failure. Patients who smoke, are obese, or have underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease may be at a higher risk of complications. It’s important for patients considering spine surgery to discuss these risks with their surgeon and carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before making a decision.
How do I choose a good spine surgeon?
Choosing a good spine surgeon is a critical decision that requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a spine surgeon:
Credentials: Check the surgeon’s credentials, including their education, training, board certification, and professional affiliations. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified in neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery and has specialized training in spine surgery.
Experience: Consider the surgeon’s experience in performing the specific procedure you need. Ask about their success rate and complication rate, and how many similar surgeries they have performed. Surgeons who regularly perform the procedure you need are likely to have better outcomes.
Reputation: Check the surgeon’s reputation by reading reviews, talking to other patients who have had similar procedures, and checking with medical professionals who may know the surgeon’s work. Look for a surgeon who is respected in the medical community and has a track record of successful outcomes.
Communication: Choose a surgeon who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and explains the procedure in a way that you can understand. A good surgeon should be able to communicate clearly and openly with you.
Hospital Quality: Consider the quality of the hospital where the surgery will take place. Look for a hospital with a good reputation for patient care, low complication rates, and modern technology.
Personal Comfort: Trust your instincts and choose a surgeon you feel comfortable with. You should feel confident in the surgeon’s abilities and comfortable asking questions or expressing concerns.
Conclusion
To summarize, it is important to keep in mind that every surgical option comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, before making the decision to undergo spine surgery, it is crucial to consult with a qualified spine surgeon, such as Dr. L. Bharath from Bharath Orthopaedics, who can help carefully evaluate you and provide an appropriate spine surgery in Chennai based on the individual circumstances.
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