Spinal Surgery
Spinal surgery is a sub-speciality of orthopaedic surgery and involves the diagnosis and surgical treatment conditions of the spine. Treatment aims to reduce pain caused by the pressure put on the spinal nerves or cord. It can be used to treat deformities of the spine, such as scoliosis, and can treat chronic conditions such as arthritis.
At Ormiston Hospital we understand the impact back pain and decreased mobility can have on your quality of life. We have a dedicated, multi-disciplinary team led by consultants who are experts in treating spinal conditions.
Our range of available spinal surgery procedures
Spinal surgery is typically recommended when treatments, such as physical therapy and medications, have not provided enough pain relief or have not been able to improve mobility. At Ormiston Hospital, we offer several types of spinal surgery, each designed to address different issues. Your surgeon will advise on the most appropriate procedure for your condition.
Main types of procedures:
- Lumbar fusion (joining two or more vertebrae)
- Laminectomy (removing part of the vertebral bone/decompression)
- Discectomy (removing a herniated or damaged disc)
- Artificial disc replacement
Need to know
During your private consultation with one of our highly regarded spine surgeons, you will be asked questions about your symptoms, how they are affecting your life, and you will have a detailed medical history taken. A physical assessment of your condition may be done, as well as any testing that might be required such as x-rays or MRI scans.
Your surgeon will discuss the recommended surgical plan with you, how it may benefit you, and go through the possible risks and complications associated with it. If you wish to go ahead with treatment, you can then work with the admissions team to arrange a date for the procedure.
To prepare for your spinal surgery it is important to follow your surgeons’ specific instructions. You will be contacted prior to your surgery date to confirm your fasting period (no food or drink to be consumed) and any specific requirements we need to take into consideration throughout your stay with us at Ormiston Hospital. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home post-surgery and to plan for a recovery period at home.
During spinal surgery, you will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free. Depending on the type of surgery you may receive general anaesthesia where you are asleep during the procedure. The surgeon will make incisions, access the spine, and perform the necessary procedure. This may involve realigning bones, removing damaged discs, or stabilising the spine with hardware. Throughout the surgery, your vital signs are closely monitored for safety, and the surgical team ensures that the procedure is as smooth and efficient as possible.
After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and ensure you are recovering well from the anaesthesia. Depending on the type of procedure you have done, your hospital stay will vary from one to four nights.
Our team of highly trained musculoskeletal physiotherapists will visit you while you are in hospital to tailor a rehabilitation plan with you. Recovery time will vary between patients, and on what procedure you have done. Our rehabilitation programme is designed to support you getting back to maximum flexibility and movement as quickly, and as safely, as possible.
Follow-up appointments will be made with your care team, including the surgeon and physiotherapist to monitor your recovery and the success of your procedure.
If you suffer from spine-related conditions, spinal surgery can provide relief from chronic pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. It aims to address the underlying issue, correct deformities, and relieve pressure on nerves, allowing you to regain the ability to perform daily activities without discomfort or limitations.
Like any medical procedure, spinal surgeries carry possible side effects and risks, some of which can be serious. Your surgeon will discuss in detail the risks associated with your specific procedure and provide information on how these risks can be minimised so you receive the best possible outcome. It is important to be well-informed of the possible risks before proceeding with your surgery.
Here are some common side effects and risks:
- Infection of the surgical site
- Excessive bleeding
- Unexpected reaction to anaesthesia
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Chronic pain
Specialist Surgeons
