Archive for category herniated disc surgery
Spine-related Ambulatory Surgery, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Less Invasive Spine Surgery review by KBNI Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Port Arthur, Galveston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Posted by admin in ACA, Affordable Care Act, ALIF TLIF PLIF DLIF XLIF AXIALIF, ambulatory surgery center, ASC, baytown, beaumont, herniated disc surgery, houston, infection, katy, less invasive spine surgery, lumbar fusion, minimally invasive surgery, neurosurgeon, neurosurgery, PPACA, spinal fusion, spine surgeon, spine surgery, sugarland, woodlands on March 30, 2015
Spine-related Ambulatory Surgery, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Less Invasive Spine Surgery
ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers
Historically, back surgery had a reputation for damaging muscles along the spinal column and requiring a long post-operative period of physical therapy to restore mobility. This is because traditional back surgery involves long, deep incisions that lacerate muscle and retract upon muscle so that the incision may be pulled open, giving the surgeon a full view of the incision site as well as the damage to be repaired in the spinal column. While this method is effective, it also poses a few serious risks to the patient’s health: the aforementioned lengthy recovery time (and compromised mobility during physical therapy) as well as the increased risk for surgical site infection (SSI) from keeping the patient’s internal workings exposed to open air (and thus possible contamination). There can also be additional spine pain during the recovery process of large open spine procedures.
ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers
Fortunately, recent advancements in both hospital technology and neurosurgery / spine surgery skills has made it easier for spine surgeons to perform spine surgery with less interruption of normal tissues surrounding the spine. Many spine procedures now use a device called a tubular retractor, which is a small metal tube that is inserted through a small incision near the patient’s spine. The tubular retractor grants the surgeon access to the damaged spinal column or herniated disc within the spinal canal. Any material threatening the patient, such as a fragmented spinal disc or piece of vertebral bone tissue, is extracted through the tubular retractor, while any equipment necessary for the back surgery (such as plates or screws to stabilize a damaged spinal column) is inserted through the retractor. Some procedures may require surgeons to use multiple retractors, but the small incisions damage the muscles along the spinal column far less than traditional deep incisions. This minimizes recovery time, reduces the risk of surgical site infection, and helps patients preserve their mobility during recovery.
ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC)
Minimally-invasive surgery procedures on the spine also occasionally transform the classification of certain kinds of surgery. Whereas traditional back surgery requires a hospital visit, minimally-invasive techniques allow many kinds of surgery to be possible in an ambulatory care setting. In other words, instead of a hospital visit compounding the expense of certain kinds of surgery, patients (and insurance companies) are finding the benefit of performing spine surgery procedures in an outpatient setting. The Affordable Care Act (ACA, PPACA) of 2010 (also known as the ACA or Obamacare or PPACA) became famous for the mandate that required all US small business owners with 50 or more full-time employees to purchase health insurance coverage benefits for their full-time staff. As of 2015, the long-term effects of the Affordable Care Act (PPACA) remain to be seen. Sweeping re-classification of major surgical procedures has yet to emerge under the ACA / PPACA, as there are still very real practical concerns: how to prevent surgical site infection effectively, for example. New methods of pay for performance and bundled care payments may also change the way healthcare is evaluated and reimbursed, and will encourage decreased hospital stays and improved outcomes. New minimally invasive spine surgery techniques are emerging, however, so additional ambulatory care surgery may be increasingly employed in the future. Ambulatory surgery centers (ASC) are ideal for spine surgery procedures in which patients are expected to return home the same day, or within 23 hours of the surgery. There are also many conveniences to a patient, when having a surgery performed in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). The ambulatory surgery centers (ASC) are very well prepared to quickly and efficiently move patients through the preop evaluation process. The patient stays briefly in the preop holding area while the nurse evaluates the patient, the anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist speaks with the patient, and the neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon identifies the patient (to prevent any wrong patient surgery from occurring). The patient is then taken back to the operating room, and put to sleep, and the neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon performs the procedure. The patient is then taken to the post op recovery room, and usually held there until the patient is awake enough, and the pain is well controlled enough, to allow discharge of the patient home.
ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC)
Minimally invasive spine surgery employs less invasive spine surgery techniques to approach the spine. These minimally invasive surgery on the spine techniques can be used to perform lumbar discectomy for removal of a herniated disc, as well as for a lumbar fusion ( ALIF, TLIF, PLIF, DLIF, XLIF).
ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC)
Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute have significant experience treating patients with diseases of the spine in an ambulatory outpatient setting. They are well versed in the full spectrum of treatments, and know when to advise conservative measures, and when to recommend surgical intervention upon the spine.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
Patients suffering from neck pain or lower back pain, or who have been told they may require a spine surgery, can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE
……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: ambulatory care, back surgery, minimally invasive surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, ACA, Affordable Care Act, PPACA, ASC, ambulatory surgery centers, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Tomball
Posted by admin in back injury prevention, back pain, back surgery, baytown, beaumont, chiropractic, chiropractor, chiropractor near me, discectomy, epidural steroid injection, ESI, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, low back pain, lumbar, lumbar fusion, pain, physical therapy, spinal fusion, sugarland, woodlands on September 29, 2014
Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation
Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston
Housed within the spinal canal, the spinal nerves provide sensation to most of the body. Generally, compressed spinal nerves happen as a result of age-related degeneration of the spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae). As we grow older, spinal discs become thinner, harder, and less pliable, reducing their ability to absorb the stresses of everyday movement. Spinal nerves may also be compressed through serious trauma, such as improper lifting techniques or accidents.
Back pain related to spinal nerve compression is generally quite sharp and significantly reduces mobility in patients. Immediate treatment options include over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which often reduce pain levels enough for the patient to explore other options for treatment. Physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor represent both a short-term and long-term solution, as strong muscles in the torso and along the spinal column will assist spinal discs in bearing the body’s stresses. This in turn will reduce the incidence of compressed spinal nerves.
spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball, Port Arthur, Conroe
Occasionally, more conservative treatments like physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor and pain medication aren’t enough to treat a patient’s nerve-related back pain. When a patient experiences muscle weakness along with nerve pain, it’s time to explore other treatment options. Physicians will likely order imaging exams (magnetic resonance imaging, x-rays) to confirm that spinal nerves are being compressed, as well as what the offending structure (e.g. bone spur) might be. After thorough analysis, physicians can then make recommendations on augmenting physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor to better suit the patient’s pain levels or explore other options entirely. Major back surgery may be necessary to mechanically decompress the offending nerves or to remove the obstruction responsible for compression.
If patients are regularly experiencing compressed spinal nerves outside the context of heavy lifting, see your doctor. Provide detailed, truthful information regarding your work history, lifestyle, and exercise habits. Be sure to account for any recreational activities that may also have been responsible, as the physician can only make an accurate prescription for course of treatment if he or she has all the relevant information. Combined with the results of your imaging exams, physicians will then direct your course of treatment according to the severity of the nerve compression. Back surgery or surgery for herniated disc may be an option, but it is possible that more conservative treatments will mediate your back pain to the point where more extensive treatment will not be needed. It is advised that you immediately contact your physician if your pain becomes sharper and more constant, or if you experience muscle weakness or loss of bladder control. All of these issues can indicate impending nerve damage.
Neurosurgeons at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX have significant experiencing treating pain and nerve compression. When conservative measures fail, or if otherwise indicated, the latest techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery are used to help relieve pain.
spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball, Port Arthur, Conroe
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
Patients suffering from neck pain or lower back pain, or who have been told they may require a spine surgery, can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE
……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston,
Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball, Port Arthur, Conroe
Cervical Disc Replacement, Houston, Katy, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas
Posted by admin in artificial disc, baytown, beaumont, cervical disc replacement, cervical fusion, cervical laminectomy, cervical spine, cervical stenosis, disc degeneration, fusion, herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, neck pain, pain, sugarland, woodlands on September 27, 2014
CERVICAL DISC REPLACEMENT
cervical disc, spinal disc, pain levels, neck pain, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble
The spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) help us manage the shocks and stresses of daily movement. Our spines are heavily involved in most kinds of motion (sitting, standing, bending, lifting, twisting, etc.). As such, the facet joints that link our vertebrae as well as the spinal discs between them need to be extremely durable and operate with low back and neck pain levels during normal motion. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Spinal structural deformities, trauma, heavy lifting, and inactivity can all play their part in compromising parts of the spinal column. The natural aging process compounds these factors due to the fact that spinal discs naturally degenerate over time. Spinal and cervical discs become thinner, harder, and less pliable as we age, and as a result they are far less capable of managing the stresses of daily life. We are also more likely to experience back and neck pain as a result of these changes.
All of these problems may create problems in the cervical discs in our necks. Since the neck is routinely engaged in movement, compromised cervical discs can severely affect mobility by causing pain during routine motion. Fortunately, there are a variety of strategies patients can use to mediate pain levels. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help mediate pain levels while restoring enough mobility for patients to explore other treatment options. Physical therapy focuses on developing muscles along the spinal column and surrounding the neck to offer support to cervical discs and relieve some of the weight they would otherwise have to bear during routine movement.
For more serious cases, such as severe structural deformity, trauma, or extreme neck pain not resolved by more conservative treatments, cervical disc replacement or cervical fusion may be the best option, depending upon the specific findings, recommendations of the surgeon, and desires of the patient. Since this surgery may be both serious and financially costly, physicians typically do not recommend it unless the compromised cervical disc is threatening other functions in the body (causing a loss of sensation, impinging on nearby spinal nerves, causing muscle weakness, etc.). Bone spurs and compromised cervical discs are the most common causes and physicians operate primarily to maintain the patient’s long-term health, as opposed to simply seeking to reduce pain levels. Of course, indications for surgery may vary from patient to patient.
Recovery for cervical disc replacement, like many types of spinal surgery, can be brief to more prolonged . Rest, a healthy diet, and regimens of physical therapy are necessary to re-develop damaged muscles and relieve some of the pressure on cervical discs. Your physician will likely order several checkups to maintain a sense of your progress and to readjust your course of treatment as needed.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
Keywords: cervical disc, spinal disc, pain levels, neck pain, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI and Herniated Disc by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical, ct, disc degeneration, discectomy, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, lumbar, lumbar spine, minimally invasive surgery, mri, spine surgery, sugarland, thoracic spine, woodlands on July 16, 2014
Contact Us for Help
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland
Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI and Herniated Disc by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas
Patients often wonder what the best test is to determine whether they have a herniated disc in the spine. Without a doubt, magnetic resonance imaging MRI has revolutionized the imaging field of medicine, and allowed immense clarity and accuracy when trying to diagnose a herniated disc. There are several different primary imaging exams that physicians use to aid in making an accurate diagnosis. When it comes to the spinal column anatomy, an incredibly complex system of powerful load-bearing bones and facet joints all working in conjunction with spinal discs and nerves, making an accurate diagnosis can be difficult. Typically, physicians will begin with a series of physical exams that test a patient’s mobility and back pain levels. Based on these findings, physicians will have a much better approximation of the possible causes for the patient’s back pain. Consequently, a series of spinal imaging exams may be recommended to confirm the diagnostics. X-rays are normally used when spinal fracture is suspected, but if soft tissue damage (such as spinal nerve compression) is the main cause of a patient’s back pain, magnetic resonance imaging MRI is used to gain an accurate estimate of the damage.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland
Magnetic resonance imaging MRI uses powerful magnetic fields and radio wave energy to map the body’s soft tissue systems. This information is then relayed to a computer so that different systems can be studied in more detail. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI also has the advantage of remote viewing, where clinics that have access to other physicians’ MRI recordings can make recommendations based on samples that have been relayed electronically. MRI scans can be done on what is known as a closed machine or magnet, or an open machine or magnet. Typically, for patients who have difficulty with claustrophobia, an open magnet or machine may be easier to tolerate. For patients with claustrophobia, a mild oral sedative or an intravenous ( IV ) sedative may help them to tolerate the machine. Most patients are able to have their MRI scan done on a closed machine, with accommodations made, even if they have mild claustrophobia.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Different MRI sequences on the MRI scan can help the radiologist and spine surgeon (neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon) to help determine whether the herniated disc is more acute or chronic in nature. In addition, MRI images can be taken in different planes. This means that the orientation of the images of the spine can be seen in sagittal (as if looking from the side), coronal (as if looking from the front of the body) or axial (as if looking from the feet with the patient lying on their back) views. With a high quality MRI scan, individual nerve roots can be seen in cross section, and a herniated disc which compresses the nerves can usually be easily visualized. Typically, an MRI scan of the cervical spine shows the spine from the skull base to the top of the thoracic spine. A cervical herniated disc can be easily seen in cross section or sagittal views on a cervical MRI. A thoracic spine MRI scan typically shows the spine from the bottom of the cervical spine to the top of the lumbar spine. A thoracic herniated disc can be seen on axial and sagittal MRI views. A lumbar MRI scan usually shows the spine from the bottom of the thoracic spine to the sacrum, which lies below the lumbar spine. An axial or sagittal MRI scan will usually show a lumbar herniated disc. A spine surgeon finds that an MRI scan provides critical information for a herniated disc surgery.
Within the spinal column, magnetic resource imaging MRI allows for complete renditions of the spinal discs (herniated disc) , which help in determining conditions like advanced disc degeneration, herniated disc, cartilage degeneration between the facet joints, and integrity of the spinal canal that houses the central nervous system’s spinal nerves. MRI scans can also be used as a secondary imaging exam if the results of an X-ray or CT scan (computerized tomography) are inconclusive. MRI scans are not always able to pinpoint the origin of a patient’s back pain, however, due to the fact that some patients may exhibit extreme pain while showing relatively few signs of soft tissue degeneration. Other patients may show much more degeneration in the spinal column, facet joints, or spinal disks, but have much lower levels of back pain during routine movement. As with other imaging exams, MRIs are used in conjunction with other imaging exams to ascertain whether more serious methods of treatment (such as back surgery) are necessary.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
When a patient is not able to undergo an MRI scan, possibly due to an implanted pacemaker or spinal cord stimulator, they can undergo a myelogram. A myelogram is a study in which a spinal tap is performed, usually in the lumbar spine, and a water soluble iodine dye is placed into the spinal canal. This iodine dye shows up on x ray and CT scans of the spine. After the myelogram is performed, with iodine dye in the spinal canal, a CT scan of the spine is performed to show an outline of the spinal nerves, and determine whether there is pressure upon the nerves. In this manner, a herniated disc in the lumbar, thoracic or cervical spine can be seen. The CT scan will also who any hard bone spurs or calcium within the herniated disc.
Neurosurgeon spine experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX, have expertise in using MRI scans to evaluate the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, and diagnose a herniated disc, among other spinal disorders. With accurate scanning and imaging techniques, KBNI physician experts can help to diagnose the cause of pain or weakness in the neck, back, arms and legs, and to find a treatment strategy which will help the patient recover. In the majority of cases, patients will achieve good relief of pain without the need of a spine surgery. When surgery on the spine is needed, neurosurgeons at the KBNI utilize the latest techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, when appropriate.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
Patients suffering from neck pain or back pain, or who have been told they may require a spine surgery, can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Foraminotomy vs Laminectomy vs Discectomy by KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Seal, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Port Arthur
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical laminectomy, cervical stenosis, discectomy, foraminotomy, herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, laminectomy, lumbar laminectomy, spinal stenosis, woodlands on July 15, 2014
foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring
Foraminotomy vs Laminectomy vs Discectomy Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Sugarland, Spring
A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure designed to lower pressure within the spinal canal by enlarging the passageway through which a spinal nerve root branches from the spinal canal. A laminectomy is a procedure to remove a greater portion of the bone (lamina) covering the roof of the spinal canal. A discectomy is a procedure to remove a portion of a herniated disc in the spine, which is bulging and pushing on a nerve. Understanding spine anatomy is important to understanding the difference between the different procedures to relieve pain. The sensitive spinal nerve roots are responsible for transmitting signals for voluntary muscle control as well as relaying sensory information for most of the rest of the body. The spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) give the spinal nerve roots enough room to exit the spinal canal. Sometimes, however, impact trauma, daily stress on the spinal discs, bone growths, or tumors may create an obstruction for the spinal nerve roots. Patients may experience extreme low back pain and / or decreased mobility if the pathways for the spinal nerve roots are compromised, or if the nerves themselves become compressed due to trauma and disk degeneration. A foraminotomy focuses more on removing a smaller portion of bone where the nerve root leaves the spinal canal. The opening in the spine through which the nerve root leaves is known as the neural foramen, and opening of this area is thus known as a foraminotomy. A laminectomy is a more extensive removal of a greater portion of bone covering the spinal canal. Of note, the neural foramen is an opening created by a roof of the superior articular facet of the vertebral body below, and the inferior articular facet of the vertebral body above. A discectomy is performed by making an opening in the lamina, in order for the spine surgeon to gain access to the disc space, where the herniated or bulging disc is situated, in order to perform a discectomy, free up the nerve root, and alleviate the pain resulting from nerve compression.
foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring
There are several different spinal conditions that may prompt a physician to consider a foraminotomy. Degenerative disc disease, a condition in which the natural degeneration of spinal discs is accelerated by other factors, is a possible cause. Herniated (displaced or ruptured) spinal discs, bone spurs, spondylosis / spinal stenosis are all also conditions that may necessitate larger passageways for spinal nerve roots. When there is a more diffuse narrowing of the spinal canal, as is the case with spinal stenosis, a foraminotomy may not be sufficient to decompress the nerves, and a laminectomy may be required. When the source of compression is located centrall within the spinal canal, and is caused by a focal disc bulge or herniation, rather than a diffuse central canal compression, then a discectomy may be a good option. In summary, back surgeries that may be effective for relieving pressure on the spinal nerves are foraminotomies, laminotomies and discectomies, as well as laminectomies.
foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston
Since back surgery is often a costly procedure with a lengthy period of post-operative care, patients are advised to seek thorough medical consultation prior to any procedure that may have implications for the spinal canal. If patients are experiencing muscle weakness, sharp or shooting pains down one or both legs, numbness in the extremities, or if their low back pain is not resolved by core strengthening exercises and weight management, physicians will typically recommend a series of spinal imaging tests. X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and CT scans may all be used to determine whether the integrity of the spinal canal is at risk. Post-imaging, physicians will be much better equipped to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment. Post-operative care will normally include physical therapy that focuses on core strengthening exercise, building the muscles in the torso to assist in managing the stresses of everyday movement.
Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have significant experience at taking care of patients with back problems, back injuries and other sources of back and neck pain, arm and leg pain. They frequently see patients who are suffering from the symptom of neck pain, low back pain, and mid back pain, and have never received imaging studies of the spine. The physicians have expertise on spine surgery including foraminotomy and laminectomy and discectomy. Physicians at the KBNI will order the appropriate spinal imaging studies of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine as needed, and review the results with the patient.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
REFERENCE SITES
Patients suffering from neck pain or back pain, or who have been told they may require a spine surgery, can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Herniated Disc Houston, Herniated Disc Surgery Houston review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Beaumont, Baytown, Memorial City, TMC Texas Medical Center
Posted by admin in back pain, baytown, beaumont, chiropractor, chiropractor near me, core strengthening exercise, disc degeneration, herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, low back pain, neck pain, physical therapy, sciatica, spine surgery, sugarland, woodlands on June 18, 2014
herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont
A herniated disc is an extremely common problem and diagnosis in the United States, leading many to consider herniated disc surgery. The spinal discs are flexible pads that sit between each of our vertebrae and act as shock-absorbers for the spine and body. Each spinal disc is composed of a tough exterior (annulus fibrosus) wrapped around a softer, jelly-like interior nucleus pulposus). Over time, our spinal discs naturally degenerate, becoming thinner, harder, and less capable of absorbing the stresses of everyday movement. This condition is known as degenerative disc disease. Excessive wear and tear (such as from bending and twisting or repetitive heavy lifting) will accelerate the natural wearing process and increase the chances of compressed spinal nerves and severe back pain or leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain . Normally, we are able to weather the changes in our spine as we age without severe pain, but sometimes this is not the case. Certain structural problems, like herniated discs, can reduce mobility significantly.
A herniated disc occurs when a disc is damaged to the point that some of the soft inner material of the disc protrudes through a hole in some of the disc’s tough exterior. Holes may occur in many different ways, including age or sudden physical trauma. After the protrusion occurs, the disc is now displaced in the spinal column and may impinge on nearby spinal nerves, causing extreme back pain or leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain. This is not the case for all herniated disc patients, however. Sometimes the injury is gradual and patients do not feel as much pain, even though their spinal discs may have suffered serious trauma. If a spinal herniated disc problem is suspected, patients should seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor will give you a complete physical examination to narrow the possible causes for your back pain or sciatica. Imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging) will help determine if the soft tissues of the spinal discs and nerves has been damaged and to what extent.
herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont
Fortunately, in most cases it is possible for herniated disc patients to preserve their mobility and improve their pain levels. Physical therapy or chiropractor treatment designed to strengthen core muscles in the torso and along the spinal column will help patients immeasurably during their recovery. Core-strengthening exercises help patients by allowing muscles in the torso to better assist in load-bearing during the body’s routine movement. A stronger core therefore means a lower incidence of re-injury, relief for nearby spinal nerves, and a higher overall quality of life for patients. For some herniated disc patients, however, their back pain may be too severe to be mediated solely by physical therapy or other conservative treatments. These patients may need corrective back surgery or herniated disc surgery to remove parts of the damaged disc and re-stabilize the spinal column with metal plates and / or screws (spinal fusion) in the lumbar spine or an anterior cervical discectomy with fusion in the cervical spine. Physical therapy is also typically involved in post-operative care for back surgery patients.
Expert physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have expertise in treating patients with herniated disc Houston. At the KBNI, neurosurgeon experts believe that most patients with a herniated disc can be treated without the need of an operation, and they can frequently implement a course of treatment which improves patient’s pain without the need of a surgery. When herniated disc surgery Houston is needed, neurosurgical experts at the KBNI employ the most current minimally invasive spine surgery techniques when appropriate.
herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.
Patients suffering from a herniated disc can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center, TMC, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
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