Complex Spine Surgery

Complex Spine Surgery: 

 

Complex spine surgery refers to surgical procedures that are used to treat complex or severe spinal conditions. These conditions may include:

• Herniated discs: A herniated disc comprises the inner, softer portion of a spinal disc that bulges out through a tear or cracks in the outer, tougher portion of the disc.
• Degenerative disc disease: Degenerative disc disease defines a condition where the discs in the spine begin to break down and lose their ability to absorb shock.
• Spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis classifies as a condition where the spaces in the spine become narrowed, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain.
• Scoliosis: Scoliosis defines is a condition where the spine curves to one side.
• Spinal tumors: Spinal tumors appear as abnormal growths that can occur in the spine and put pressure on the nerves.
• Fractures: Fractures can occur in the spine due to trauma or osteoporosis.

These complex spinal conditions may require complex surgical procedures such as:

• Microdiscectomy: This procedure removes a herniated disc that is putting pressure on a nerve.
• Laminectomy: This procedure relieves pressure on the nerves caused by spinal stenosis.
• Spinal fusion: This procedure fuses two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and relieve pain.
• Scoliosis correction: This procedure corrects the curve of the spine in scoliosis.
• Spinal tumor resection: This procedure removes a spinal tumor.
• Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty: This procedure treats vertebral compression fractures.

It’s worth noting that complex spine surgery at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute occurs only as a last resort.  Moreover, it is only recommended when other treatments have failed to provide relief or when the spine condition is severe. Following surgery, the recovery time and outcomes can vary depending on the type of procedure and the individual case.

Training

Complex spine surgery is a specialized field that requires extensive training and expertise. Therefore, the following are the typical training requirements for a physician who qualifies to perform complex spine surgery:

• Medical school: All physicians must complete four years of medical school to receive their medical degree (MD or DO)
• Residency training: After medical school, physicians must complete a five-year residency program in general surgery or orthopedic surgery.
• Fellowship training: After completing a general surgery or orthopedic surgery residency, physicians may choose to complete a one- or two-year fellowship program in spine surgery.
• Board certification: After completing their training, physicians may choose to become board certified in spine surgery by passing a comprehensive exam administered by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, American Board of Neurological Surgery, or American Board of Neurosurgery.

It’s worth noting that some surgeons choose to conduct a dedicated spine surgery fellowship.  Subsequently, the doctor will achieve the highest level of proficiency in spine surgery and perform the most complex cases.

Finally, doctors will tell those that ask about their training and certification that it was demanding and rigorous, but it ensures that surgeons have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform complex spine surgeries safely and effectively. It’s important to check the credentials and experience of your surgeon before you decide to have complex spine surgery. In conclusion, the surgeons at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute with offices in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas are all Fellowship trained and Board Certified.

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Herniated discs:
Spinal Fusion:  
Spinal stenosis: 
Scoliosis: