Meet Our Doctor
Dr. Paresh Bang
Consultant Spine Surgeon
Surgery for complex spine In Akola
Surgery for complex spine
Complex spine surgery is the surgical procedure in which six or more vertebrae of the spinal column are involved, and it takes six or more hours to repair a deformity in the spine. Complex spine surgery is one of the most challenging and demanding procedures and requires the highest patient dedication to be successfully conducted.
Complex spinal surgery involves intricate procedures to address severe spinal conditions that often require specialized techniques and expertise. These surgeries may involve multiple procedures, complex instrumentation, or unique challenges due to the patient’s anatomy or medical history.
Indications for complex spine surgery
- People requiring complex spine surgery always have serious spinal deformities and major curvatures, severe spinal trauma, spinal tumors, and degenerative spine conditions, including:
- Scoliosis
- Kyphosis
- Spinal stenosis
- Disc herniation
- Spondylolisthesis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Revision spine surgery
Preparation for complex spine surgery
You will also be evaluated preoperatively before complex spine surgery with respect to your general condition to assess whether you are fit enough for the surgery. The doctor will detail everything, from the pros and cons of the procedure to the form of anesthesia that will be given. Inform your doctor of all medications or supplements that you take at present like medications that could dilute the blood such as aspirin. Your doctor may instruct you to stop these medications for a short period of time leading up to your surgery. Be sure to inform your doctor of any allergies you may have to medications or latex. If you smoke, inform your doctor because nicotine can interfere with some of the bone fusion involved in long-term stability of your spine. Your doctor will give you options to help you quit smoking. Your doctor will also make a discussion of the recommendation that you do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery.
What happens during complex spine surgery
Commonly, procedures in complex spine surgery include the following:
- Surgical incision middle back to access the spine
- Removals of lamina- bony projections on vertebral bones that perforate the spine
- Bone grafting between two vertebrae
- Installation of hardware, bolts, screws, or titanium rods that hold the vertebrae together and insert both straighten the spine
- Imaging to see that everything is sufficiently aligned.
- Closing the surgical incision with removable staples or sutures
In some spines deformity correction, bone needs to be cut and repositioned before being placed in a state of any hardware. The hardware stabilizes the spine and keeps everything in place for healing to start happening. During the healing process, the bone grafts fuse up with the spine to form solid bones.
Common complex spine surgery
- Multilevel Spinal Fusion: This procedure involves fusing multiple vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and relieve pain. It is often used to treat conditions like degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and kyphosis.
- Revision Spinal Surgery: This refers to surgery performed on a previously operated spine. It may be necessary to address complications, correct errors from previous surgeries, or address the progression of a spinal condition.
- Spinal Tumor Surgery: Removing benign or malignant tumors from the spine requires delicate techniques to preserve neurological function and maintain spinal stability.
- Deformity Correction: Complex surgeries may be needed to correct severe spinal deformities like scoliosis or kyphosis, often involving multiple procedures or the use of specialized implants.
- Spinal Trauma Surgery: Treating spinal injuries caused by accidents or trauma often requires complex procedures to stabilize the spine and prevent neurological damage.
Postoperative care and Instructions
You be taken to the recovery area immediately after surgery where you receive further close monitoring and care. Several equipment will be attached to you during this time, most often a pulse oximeter that monitors your oxygen level and IVs that infuse fluids and medications. You may also be fitted with catheters attached to your bladder and compression stockings on your legs to prevent blood clots. You will be significantly in pain. Typically, will be on some type of pain medication, and muscle relaxants. You’ll also have ice packs applied to the areas of injury to keep those areas numb and comfortable. You should sit, get out of bed, stand, and walk up and down the unit to maintain circulation and prevent stiffness. You are advised to wear a back brace that reduces bending and twisting, which could make things worse and will leave your spine alone to heal. As part of your recovery program, you will receive a customized physical therapy regimen. You will be advised on how to alter activities, diet, wound and dressing care, bathing, driving, and you will be counselled on the need to avoid smoking during the healing and recovery process.
Risks and Complications
- Like any surgical intervention, the risks and complications of complex spine surgery are as follows:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to the nerves and arteries
- Persistent pain
- Complications from the anesthesia
- Development of blood clots or DVT
- Spinal cord injury
- Fracture of the hardware
- Migration of the implants
Conclusion
Complex spinal surgery represents a delicate balance between the potential for significant improvement and the inherent risks associated with intricate procedures. While these surgeries can offer life-changing benefits for individuals with severe spinal conditions, they require careful consideration and a commitment to comprehensive care.