Selkäydinkirurgia

Selkäydinkirurgia, often referred to as spinal surgery, encompasses a range of surgical procedures performed on the spine. These operations aim to address conditions affecting the spinal cord, nerves, vertebrae, and surrounding tissues. Common reasons for undergoing spinal surgery include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, spinal injuries, and tumors. The primary goals of the surgery are to relieve pain, correct deformities, stabilize the spine, and improve neurological function.

There are various types of spinal surgeries. Decompressive laminectomy, for instance, involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, often to alleviate pressure from spinal stenosis. Discectomy is a procedure to remove a damaged or herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve. Spinal fusion is used to permanently join two or more vertebrae, providing stability to an unstable segment of the spine, often following fractures or in cases of severe degenerative disease. Other procedures might involve the insertion of hardware like rods, screws, or cages to support and stabilize the spine.

The decision to perform spinal surgery is typically made after conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and injections, have failed to provide relief. A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies like MRI and CT scans, is crucial in determining the appropriate surgical approach. The risks associated with spinal surgery can include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and implant failure, though these are generally mitigated by experienced surgical teams and advancements in surgical techniques. Recovery time varies significantly depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual patient's health.