A spine surgeon is a doctor who specializes in diseases and conditions of the back and spine. These doctors can perform several different types of surgical procedures and treat many different types of back problems. They are often better qualified for certain procedures than neurosurgeons. Read on to learn more about spine surgeons and what they can do for you.
An orthopedic spine surgeon is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect the back
An orthopedic spine surgeon specializes in the treatment and diagnosis of conditions of the back and spine. They are typically board certified and fellowship trained. Fellowships are additional training programs that surgeons take after medical school. Fellows often have higher levels of training and experience.
These specialists can treat a wide range of problems affecting the back, including injuries caused by sports or active lifestyles. They can help you find a treatment plan that is right for you, as well as options for nonsurgical treatments. Nonsurgical treatments may be more effective for a number of reasons, and your orthopedic spine surgeon will be able to explain all of your options and explain them to you. If nonsurgical treatment is unsuccessful, they may recommend devices to aid the ispine.com.au healing process or joint injections. Other treatment options may include physical therapy or non-opioid medications to loosen up stiff muscles.
They treat a variety of conditions
There are several types of surgical treatments for spine disorders. Surgical options vary depending on the location, severity and medical history of the patient. Because every patient’s anatomy is different, surgeons may recommend some surgeries and not others. Surgical procedures include spinal fusion, foraminotomy, discectomy and laminectomy.
An injured spine can cause severe pain and limited mobility. Many times, nonsurgical treatments can help alleviate the pain and restore function. Nonsurgical techniques include physical therapy, exercises to reduce pressure on spinal nerves, and epidural injections.
They perform a variety of procedures
Spine surgeons perform a variety of surgical procedures to repair spinal problems. These procedures may be performed for a variety of reasons. One common reason for surgery is a slipped disc. Another common reason is a fractured vertebra. Spine surgeons perform several different procedures to repair and restore the spinal column to proper alignment. Spine surgery may be performed on both a lumbar and a cervical spine.
One procedure that spine surgeons perform involves the use of radiofrequency energy to fuse vertebrae. This procedure may involve a small incision or use a plasma laser device to fuse the bones of the spine. Spinal instrumentation is another procedure that can stabilize a motion segment during a spinal fusion.
They are more qualified to perform certain procedures than neurosurgeons
There are some procedures that spine surgeons are better qualified to perform than neurosurgeons. These include spinal deformities and surgery inside the spinal cord. Spine surgeons also have advanced training in microsurgical procedures and minimally invasive spine surgery.
The choice between orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons is based on several factors. The best surgeon may perform more complex procedures or be more experienced in a particular field. The level of skill and experience of the surgeon will determine the outcome of the surgery.