Surgical Options
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common surgical options for lumbar spondylosis?
Common surgical options include:
Laminectomy: This procedure involves removing a portion of the lamina (the back part of the vertebra) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Discectomy: In this procedure, a herniated disc is removed to alleviate nerve compression.
Spinal Fusion: This involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine after a laminectomy or discectomy, using bone grafts and hardware.
Artificial Disc Replacement: In select cases, a damaged disc may be replaced with an artificial one to maintain motion in the lumbar spine.
What factors influence the decision to perform spinal surgery?
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments (physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications) fail to provide relief, or when there are serious symptoms such as persistent pain, weakness, or neurological issues (balance and coordination) due to nerve compression.
Factors include:
- Severity and duration of symptoms and their impact on daily life.
- Presence of neurological deficits (e.g., weakness, numbness).
- Imaging studies indicating significant spinal cord or nerve compression.
- Overall health and medical history of the patient.
- Response to conservative treatment options.
What is Cauda Equina?
The cauda equina is a bundle of spinal nerves and spinal nerve roots located in the lower part of the spinal canal. It is named after the Latin term for “horse’s tail” due to its appearance, as it resembles a horse’s tail.
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a medical emergency for several key reasons:
1. Nerve Compression: CES involves compression of the cauda equina nerves, which can lead to severe neurological deficits.
2. Loss of Function: Patients may experience weakness, paralysis, or loss of sensation in the legs.
3. Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: CES often causes loss of bladder and bowel control, leading to complications like infections and obstructions.
4. Risk of Permanent Damage: Prolonged compression can result in irreversible nerve damage, increasing the likelihood of long-term deficits.
5. Urgent Surgical Intervention Needed: Immediate surgical decompression is often required to relieve pressure and prevent lasting harm.
6. Rapid Symptom Progression: Symptoms can escalate quickly, making prompt medical evaluation critical. Due to these factors, anyone with symptoms suggestive of CES should seek emergency medical attention to prevent serious, long-term consequences