Spondylosis surgery is almost always considered an elective procedure, and is only recommended in cases of extreme, debilitating discomfort that has made normal living virtually impossible. Before doctors will even consider recommending surgery to treat degenerative spine conditions associated with spondylosis, a thorough course of conservative treatment will be attempted. This typically includes physical therapy, pain medication, epidural “nerve block” injections, and other non-surgical methods. If chronic symptoms persist despite weeks or months of conservative treatment, a doctor might then present surgery as an option.
Drawbacks of Traditional Spondylosis Surgery
Traditional spondylosis surgery is a major commitment, never to be undertaken lightly. Always research the ramifications thoroughly before deciding to undergo traditional neck or back surgery. Open spine surgery involves:
- The use of general anesthesia
- Long incisions, usually 5 or 6 inches
- The cutting of muscles and other tissue to provide access to areas of nerve compression
- The excision of significant portions of the spinal anatomy
- The implantation of metal or plastic hardware to permanently fuse vertebrae
- Several days of hospitalization
- Recuperation lasting a year or more
Minimally Invasive Alternative
Minimally invasive spondylosis surgery, as performed at Laser Spine Institute, involves no general anesthesia (deep IV sedation is used), relatively small incisions, limited removal of bone or other tissue, and requires no hospital stay. Perhaps most importantly, recuperation is far shorter than after traditional surgery, so patients can resume their normal lives much sooner. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more, or for a free review of an MRI or CT scan.
