The Newest Procedures in Laser Spine Surgery

Laser spine surgery is one of the most cutting-edge treatments in the medical world. Until relatively recently, patients who needed spine surgery had to undergo invasive procedures with a long recovery time and relatively high risks. Although the results were worth the downsides, the downsides were undeniable. Now, patients with many common spine conditions can be treated with laser spine surgery.

How it Works

Most spine conditions cause pain by pressing against the spinal cord or nerve roots. For example, damage to the discs or bones can cause this to occur, as can misalignment of the spine. To treat the symptoms, the misplaced tissue must be removed. Traditional surgery accomplishes this task by opening up the spine and using tools to remove the offending tissue.

Laser spine surgery can be used on most common spine conditions to achieve this same goal. During the procedure:

• The doctor creates two or more small incisions alongside the spine
  
• Through one incision, a camera is inserted, allowing the physician to see the inside of the spine
  
• Through the other incision(s), tools and a laser probe are inserted 
• The laser can be used to dissolve misplaced tissue, such as disc material
  
• Tools can be used to perform other necessary tasks
  

This procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, with no need for patients to be placed under general anesthesia. General anesthesia and staying in the hospital are both associated with a higher risk of complications. Patients return home the same day, and have a much quicker and more comfortable recovery than with open spine surgery. Patients with desk jobs can return to work in as little as a week, and most people make a full recovery and can return to physically strenuous activities in as little as 6 weeks.

Eligible Conditions 

Many, but not all, spine conditions can be treated with laser surgery:

• Bulging discs
  
• Herniated discs
  
• Degenerative disc disease
  
• Bone spurs
  
• Spinal arthritis
  

On the other hand, some serious conditions do not respond to laser treatment. For example, if a spinal tumor needs to be surgically removed,l open spine surgery must be performed. Surgically correcting structural issues like kyphosis and scoliosis is also a job for open spine surgery.

Only a doctor can tell you whether or not you could benefit from laser spine surgery. To schedule a consultation with NYC's top spine expert, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.