Spine Stabilization and Reconstruction

Overview

Spine stabilization refers to the surgical procedures that correct spinal instability and deformity while optimizing the weight-bearing function and mobility of the spinal column. Internal fixation enables bony fusion (arthrodesis) to occur across vertebral segments for definitive long-term stabilization, using a variety of rigid hardware constructs tailored to specific spinal pathology, surgical approaches, and goals. The lumbar spine is especially susceptible to instability due to its significant load-bearing responsibilities and its high degree of mobility, which allows for normal movement.

Diseases treated with Spine Stabilization surgery

The following conditions are treated using spinal stabilization surgery:

Trauma resulting from auto or sports-related incidents
Trauma resulting from a fall from a great height, causing spinal compression, fractures, and other conditions
Degenerative conditions like adult scoliosis, pediatric scoliosis, herniated discs or kyphosis
Spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis-related bone loss
Spondylolisthesis
Spinal neoplasms

All of the aforementioned conditions cause significant back pain, weakness, numbness, and loss of mobility and flexibility.

Types of Spine Stabilization

Nowadays, the stabilization surgery is mainly performed through:

Minimally invasive stabilization surgery (MISS), which is a type of spine surgery that employs minimally invasive techniques to stabilize spinal structures (vertebrae, joints, intervertebral discs) and relieve pressure on spinal nerves that have been compressed.

Dynamic spine stabilization is also an alternative to spinal fusion or metal implants, which, despite their ability to alleviate back pain caused by spinal disk degeneration, frequently severely restrict range of motion. Dynamic spine stabilization, on the other hand, employs flexible materials to stabilize the spine and treat disc-related injuries and pain in the lower back.

Preparation for Spine Stabilization

Before undergoing surgery, quitting smoking and improving your fitness through regular exercise will facilitate a quicker recovery. Devices such as metal screws, plates, or rods will be used in the majority of reconstructive surgeries to help straighten the spine and keep the vertebrae stable during healing.

Spine Stabilization Procedure

The surgeon will make a small incision in your back or neck above the damaged area during the procedure. Your doctor will use specialized instruments to move aside muscle and soft tissue to create a channel to your spine. Your surgeon will then remove a degenerated disc partially or entirely.

In order to stabilize the spine, maintain proper height in the spine, and realign the vertebrae, an artificial disc, hardware, or bone graft implant will be inserted. The procedures for spinal stabilization are also used to remove vertebral fragments, bone spurs, or soft tissues that cause nerve compression. In dynamic spine stabilization, the surgeon will implant a flexible material as opposed to metal rods and rotation-permissive screws. This technique provides many of the advantages of conventional fusion therapy, but allows the patient to retain a greater range of motion.

The surgery will be performed while you are asleep (under general anesthesia) and will likely require a four- to six-day hospital stay; the length of stay will depend on the complexity of the surgery, the affected areas of the spine, and how well you heal. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication after surgery, and you may receive nutrients through an intravenous line. After surgery, you will be taught techniques for getting out of bed, sitting, standing, and walking to prevent spinal flexion, and your doctor may recommend inpatient rehabilitation. When returning home, you may need to wear a brace or cast.

In the weeks and months following surgery, you can expect your quality of life to improve; however, due to the complexity of the procedure, it will take several months to fully recover. Your doctor can help you set reasonable goals for returning to normal activities.

Benefits of Spine Stabilization

In four weeks, the pain will subside following the procedure. Nonetheless, there will be discomfort for several months. While the bones fuse together, only limited activity is permitted, and lifting, bending, and twisting are strictly prohibited. The first week after surgery will consist of walking and stretching, followed by static stabilization exercises for the next two months. Six months are required for complete recovery after spinal stabilization surgery. Our surgeons have the experience and knowledge to treat a variety of spine conditions with appropriate and effective spinal stabilization procedures. They employ the most advanced and secure surgical techniques to help you regain function and mobility to enhance your quality of life.