Back Surgery – Conventional VS. Laser Back Surgery
Not long ago, surgery for back problems was strictly performed in conventional ways. The recovery for conventional surgery takes place over an extended period of time, and depending on the overall health and condition of the patient it could literally be months before they return to their normal activities and daily routine. In addition to the lengthy recovery time there are many things to consider such as risk factors associated with major surgery, hospital stays, and the use of general anesthesia. Compared to minimally invasive laser spine surgery, the risks involved with conventional surgery are much greater.
As our medical technology has evolved patients have been filled with a new sense of hope as minimally invasive laser spine surgery has become more mainstream. Over the years laser surgery has evolved and the number of physicians that perfume these procedures has grown.
There is far less risk of complication involved with minimally invasive surgery compared to conventional open back surgery. The incision is much smaller and with no need for general anesthesia, complications related to this virtually vanish.
Conventional back surgery requires quite a large incision leaving a large scar on most patients. On the contrary, because minimally invasive procedures require only a small incision the scar is much smaller and usually hardly noticeable.
Because of the technique involved with laser surgery, the muscles are not cut or torn. Instead they are pushed out of the way causing much less scar tissue that may lead to future nerve impingement.
How Does Laser Spine Surgery Work:
Laser spine surgery is minimally invasive and performed through a tube placed in the patient through a small incision. Usually the incision is no more the half an inch. Laser surgery makes use of telescopic type instrumentation connecting to a monitor that provides a real time display for the operating surgeon. This allows for a much larger success ratio as the surgeon has a clear vision of the problem at can visibly see when the correction is made.
Laser Spine Surgery Recovery Process:
During the minimally invasive surgery many patients will actually feel the sense of relief when an impinged nerve is freed.
It is common for patients to be up and walking just hours after the procedure. A rehabilitation plan is formed with the belief of strengthening core muscles to avoid future problems or a recurrence of the problem that was corrected. Physical therapy goals are made with consideration to the patients general health in mind.
Is Laser Spine Surgery the Right Choice for You:
The most practical advice that can be given to a patient looking to undergo surgery for back pain is to meet with your doctor and discuss at length all the options that are available to you. Your doctor will likely take a close look at the condition you are suffering from and combined with your medical history make a recommendation for you.
Depending on how satisfied you are with your doctor’s diagnosis and suggested treatment method, you may get the opinion of another physician. A second opinion never hurts.
