Types of Spine Surgery 

Many people suffer from chronic back pain. Chronic back pain can drastically compromise a person's quality of life and interfere with their ability to perform basic daily functions. There are numerous non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques to treat chronic back pain, but they are not always successful. When other techniques have failed, spine surgery may effectively eliminate pain and restore physical functions.

Doctors at Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin offer a number of spine surgery techniques to meet the unique needs of our Austin, TX, patients. We are happy to discuss these different types of spine surgery, and help patients determine which can most effectively treat their cause of back pain.

A discectomy involves the removal of abnormal disc material within the spinal cord. Most often just a portion of intervertebral disc(s) is removed. Eliminating damaged or abnormal disc material alleviates pressure from the nerves within the spinal column to treat symptoms such as pain, weakness, or numbness. If necessary, a complete disc can be removed during a discectomy. In cases such as these, the removed disc is replaced with one that is artificial.

A laminectomy is another surgical technique that is performed to alleviate pressure from the nerves within the spine. This procedure specifically addresses pressure that is caused by bone spurs or tissue growth associated with injuries, arthritis, herniated discs, tumors, or age-related changes to the spine. During surgery, a portion of the vertebrae (the lamina) is removed. By alleviating pressure from the spinal cord and nerve roots, we can improve comfort and mobility.

Kyphoplasty is performed to address bone deformities or to treat spinal compression fractures. During this procedure, a balloon is inserted into the vertebrae. The balloon is inflated to create space within the spinal column. Once necessary space has been created, a cement-like compound is injected into the area. The compound hardens to restore height to damaged, deformed, or fractured vertebrae, which can drastically relieve pain.

Spinal fusion is a surgical technique that connects two or more vertebrae within any area of the spine. The procedure joins the bones to secure them in their proper position and prevent movement that can cause pain. During surgery, the vertebrae are connected with metal plates, screws, or rods, but over time the tissues should fuse together and heal as one bone.

Tumors within the spine can lead to a number of issues, including chronic back pain, neurological problems, and paralysis. The more that tumors grow, the greater issues they may cause. Our Austin doctors can perform tumor removal surgery to eliminate growths and alleviate related symptoms. Depending on the extent of the damage, bone tissues may also need to be removed, and the spine may need to be reinforced.

If you are suffering from chronic back pain that has failed to respond to less invasive treatment options, it may be time to consider spine surgery. To learn more about the types of spine surgery that are offered at Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin, send us a message online or call (512) 476-2830 and request a consultation.