Alternatives to Spinal Fusion Surgery

Spinal fusion surgery, also known as spondylodesis, is surgery to join, or fuse, two or more vertebrae in the lower back. The aim of the procedure is to fuse together the painful vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone. For patients researching treatment alternatives to spine fusion — which is considered a major surgery — it is important that a doctor first identifies the cause of your symptoms to isolate the actual cause of pain. Then he or she can determine which device and procedure will best address the problem.
Some alternatives to spinal fusion include Intradiscal Electrothermal Coagulation (or annuloplasty). IDET is minimally invasive and usually done on an outpatient basis under mild sedation and local anesthetic. Disc Replacement Surgery involves replacing painful discs in the spine with artificial discs. Posterior Dynamic Stabilization removes pressure from the disc to create a favorable healing environment and reduce pain. Disc Regeneration is a process that attempts to render spinal fusion surgery unnecessary. Researchers in cellular and molecular biology are exploring ways to use gene therapy to stimulate regeneration and/or to slow or cease degeneration of the vertebral disc.
Spinal fusion surgery is not the only option available to those suffering from vertebral disc pain. While some alternatives are still in the research stage, the possibility of eliminating spinal surgery altogether seems promising.
To learn more about alternatives to spinal fusion, contact your physician or click here to schedule an appointment with Datta Endoscopic^SM Back Surgery and Pain Center. We have six locations conveniently located in the New York-New Jersey area. 

Dr. Sukdeb Datta of Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery & Pain Center is a highly regarded and widely published specialist in the fields of pain management and spine care. In 2016, Dr. Datta was once again selected for Super Doctors of New York, a listing of outstanding physicians from more than 40 medical specialties who have attained a high degree of peer recognition or professional achievement. This is Dr. Datta’s fourth consecutive year receiving this honor.
 

This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not take the place of in-person medical treatment. The information conveyed here is not a medical recommendation. Consult Datta Endoscopic or your physician for a personalized medical diagnosis and treatment plan.