General spine surgery
We understand that undergoing spine surgery can be a daunting prospect, which is why we strive to create a supportive and compassionate environment for our patients. Our team is committed to providing detailed information, answering all your questions, and guiding you through every step of the surgical process.
Quick facts
Personalised care
From diagnostics to surgery, we will guide you through your journey with compassion and care
Expertise and precision
Our team of specialists are highly experienced in general spine surgeries and use advanced techniques for quicker recovery
First-class aftercare
Access to physiotherapist, psychologists, dieticians, to look after your wellbeing post-surgery
Overview
We understand that choosing to undergo spine surgery is a significant decision, and we are here to provide you with the information, guidance, and support you need. Our team of highly skilled spine surgeons is committed to offering comprehensive and advanced surgical solutions for a wide range of spinal conditions. Whether you're dealing with lumbar, thoracic, cervical, or general spine issues, our primary objective is to alleviate pain, restore function, and enhance your overall quality of life.
As a specialised field, spine surgery involves the surgical treatment of various spinal conditions such as herniated discs, spinal deformities, spinal stenosis, and spinal cord compression. At our clinic, we prioritise the use of minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. These techniques help reduce post-operative discomfort, promote faster recovery, and minimise scarring, ensuring you have a smoother healing process. With our team of dedicated surgeons and staff, you can expect exceptional care, expertise, and personalised attention throughout your journey with us.
Types of spine surgeries
We will guide you through the entire surgical journey, from pre-operative consultations and thorough evaluations to the surgery itself and post-operative care. Our comprehensive range of spine surgeries include:
- Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy: This minimally invasive technique allows for the removal of a herniated disc using specialised instruments and a small incision. It offers the advantage of reduced muscle and tissue disruption, resulting in less post-operative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
- Microdiscectomy: This minimally invasive procedure involves the removal of a herniated disc that is causing nerve compression or pain. It utilises specialised instruments and techniques to precisely remove the affected portion of the disc, relieving pressure on the nerves and reducing symptoms.
- Microsurgical Decompression: This precise surgical approach involves the removal of specific structures or tissues that may be compressing nerves in the lumbar spine. It aims to alleviate nerve pressure and reduce symptoms, providing targeted relief to patients with nerve-related issues.
- Posterior Spinal Fusion: This surgery aims to stabilise the lower back by fusing two or more vertebrae together. It involves the placement of bone grafts or artificial implants between the vertebrae to promote fusion, providing stability and preventing excessive movement that may cause pain or nerve irritation.
- Anterior Spinal Fusion: In this procedure, the fusion of vertebrae is approached from the front of the spine. It involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with a bone graft or implant. By fusing the vertebrae together, this surgery aims to restore stability and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spinal instability.
- Synchronous Combined Anterior & Posterior Fusion: This comprehensive fusion surgery involves both front and back approaches to address complex spinal conditions. It may be recommended for severe cases where a higher degree of stabilisation and correction is required.
- Disc Replacement: This surgical option involves replacing a damaged or degenerated lumbar disc with an artificial disc. This procedure aims to maintain normal motion in the spine while reducing pain and preserving flexibility. It is typically recommended for select patients who meet specific criteria.
- Dynamic Stabilisation of Lumbar Spine: This surgical approach involves the use of flexible devices to stabilise the lumbar spine. It aims to provide stability while preserving some degree of spinal motion, allowing for a more natural range of movement.
- Vertebrectomy: Vertebrectomy is a surgical procedure in which a vertebra is partially or completely removed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots. This procedure is typically performed to address conditions such as tumours, fractures, or severe degenerative changes that cause spinal cord compression. After the vertebra is removed, the surgeon may perform a spinal fusion to provide stability to the cervical spine.
- Kyphoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures. It involves the insertion of a balloon-like device into the fractured vertebra, which is then inflated to restore the vertebral height. Once the height is restored, the cavity created by the balloon is filled with bone cement to stabilise the fractured vertebra. Kyphoplasty aims to relieve pain, restore vertebral height, and improve spinal alignment.
- Thoracic Discectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of a herniated disc in the thoracic spine. It is performed to alleviate symptoms caused by disc compression or nerve impingement, which may include pain, numbness, or weakness in the chest, abdomen, or upper back. The surgery aims to relieve pressure on the affected nerves, restore spinal stability, and improve overall function.
- Correction of Scoliosis: Scoliosis is a condition characterised by an abnormal side ways curvature of the spine. Surgical intervention may be recommended for severe cases of thoracic scoliosis that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. The specific surgical technique used will depend on the severity and location of the curvature. It may involve spinal fusion, where the vertebrae are fused together using bone grafts, rods, screws, or other instrumentation to straighten the spine and prevent further progression of the curve. The surgery aims to improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life.
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: This surgical procedure involves the removal of a herniated or damaged disc in the neck through an anterior approach (from the front). After the disc is removed, the adjacent vertebrae are fused together using bone grafts, plates, and screws. This fusion helps to stabilise the cervical spine and alleviate symptoms such as neck pain, arm pain, and numbness or weakness caused by nerve compression. The goal of the procedure is to restore disc height, decompress nerve structures, and improve spinal stability.
- Cervical Disc Replacement: In this surgical procedure, a diseased or damaged cervical disc is replaced with an artificial disc. This approach aims to maintain mobility and flexibility of the cervical spine while providing pain relief and improving function. The damaged disc is removed, and the artificial disc is inserted to replace its function. Cervical disc replacement may be considered as an alternative to fusion in select cases, allowing for preserved motion and potentially reducing the risk of adjacent segment degeneration.
- Foraminotomy: is a surgical procedure that involves the widening of the neural foramen, which is the opening through which the spinal nerves exit the spinal canal. This procedure aims to relieve nerve compression caused by conditions such as herniated discs, bone spurs, or thickened ligaments. By enlarging the foramen, the surgeon creates more space for the nerve roots, reducing the pressure and alleviating symptoms such as pain, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulder, or arm.
- Resection of Spinal Tumour: Resection of a spinal tumour is a surgical procedure performed to remove a tumour that is affecting the spine. The surgery aims to relieve pain, restore spinal stability, and prevent further damage to the spinal cord and nerves. The specific technique used depends on the type, size, and location of the tumour. The surgeon will carefully remove the tumour, taking into consideration the surrounding healthy tissues and structures. This procedure may involve the use of spinal instrumentation or fusion to provide stability after tumour removal.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation: Spinal cord stimulation is a procedure that involves the implantation of a device called a spinal cord stimulator. This device delivers electrical signals to the spinal cord to help manage chronic pain. The electrical signals interfere with the pain signals travelling to the brain, providing relief. The stimulator is typically implanted near the spine and connected to small electrodes that are placed in the epidural space. The intensity and frequency of the electrical signals can be adjusted based on the individual's pain needs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
See below frequently asked questions relating to surgery options. If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to give us a call or send an email using the 'contact us' button at the top of the page.
+44 (0)20 76156 7720
Spine surgery is often recommended for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis), spinal fractures, and spinal tumours. These conditions can cause persistent pain, neurological symptoms, or functional limitations that do not respond to conservative treatments.
The recovery period varies depending on the specific surgery and individual factors. Generally, it can take several days, weeks to months for patients to experience significant improvement and return to their normal activities. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions and guide you through the recovery process, including physical therapy and follow-up appointments.
As with any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. However, it's important to note that serious complications are rare, and your surgeon will take precautions to minimise the risks and ensure your safety.
During the surgery, you will be under anaesthesia and should not feel any pain. After the procedure, some discomfort and pain are expected, but they can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your surgeon. The medical team will closely monitor your pain levels and work with you to provide appropriate pain relief during the recovery period.
In most cases, non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, injections, and lifestyle modifications can effectively manage spine-related conditions. These conservative treatments are almost always explored before considering surgery. Your surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your condition and discuss all available options to determine the most suitable and least invasive treatment approach for you.
Your surgeon and their team will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, which may include fasting before the procedure, adjusting medications, and stopping certain supplements or medications that can interfere with the surgery or recovery. It's essential to follow these instructions closely to optimise the surgical outcome and minimise potential complications. Additionally, having a support system in place and preparing your home environment for your post-operative needs can contribute to a smoother recovery.
