Types of Back Surgery and What to Expect During Recovery

October 8, 2024 | By: Raleigh Orthopaedic Team

At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we understand how debilitating back pain can be. When non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, back surgery may become a necessary option. Our board-certified spine surgeons, including Dr. Bradley Saitta, Dr. Mark Mikles, Dr. Yuri Pompeu, and Dr. Ryan McLynn, are experts in performing advanced spinal surgeries. Below, we outline some common types of back surgery, when you should consider surgery, and what you can expect during the recovery process.

When Should I Consider Back Surgery?

Back surgery is typically considered a last resort when non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and injections, have not provided adequate relief. Here are a few signs that you may want to discuss surgical options with a spine specialist:

Chronic Pain That Affects Your Daily Life

If you have persistent pain that interferes with your ability to work, perform daily tasks, or enjoy hobbies, surgery may be necessary to improve your quality of life.

Leg Pain, Weakness, or Numbness

Symptoms like sciatica, which causes pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down your leg, may indicate a nerve issue that requires surgical intervention.

Difficulty Walking or Standing

If you’re experiencing difficulty standing, walking, or maintaining your balance due to spinal stenosis or nerve compression, surgery might offer a solution.

Failure of Conservative Treatments

When treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections have not provided significant relief over several months, surgical options should be explored.

Structural Issues with the Spine

Conditions like herniated discs, spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis), or spinal instability may require surgery to correct the underlying structural problem.

If you’re unsure whether back surgery is the right option, our spine experts can help evaluate your condition and provide guidance on the most effective treatment plan.

Common Types of Back Surgery

Discectomy

Overview: A discectomy involves removing part or all of a damaged or herniated disc that is pressing on the spinal nerves, causing pain or weakness.

When it’s recommended: Patients with persistent leg pain, sciatica, or nerve compression that has not responded to physical therapy or injections may benefit from this procedure.

Laminectomy

Overview: In this procedure, a surgeon removes part of the vertebrae (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often caused by spinal stenosis.

When it’s recommended: Patients experiencing chronic pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs may need this surgery when conservative treatments have not helped.

Spinal Fusion

Overview: This surgery joins two or more vertebrae together, eliminating motion between them to relieve pain from conditions like degenerative disc disease or spinal instability.

When it’s recommended: Spinal fusion is often recommended for patients with severe arthritis of the spine, spinal deformities, or vertebral fractures.

Artificial Disc Replacement

Overview: Instead of fusing the vertebrae, this procedure replaces a damaged disc with an artificial one, allowing for more natural movement.

When it’s recommended: Patients with a single-level disc degeneration who want to preserve spine mobility may be candidates for disc replacement surgery.

Foraminotomy

Overview: This procedure enlarges the opening where nerve roots exit the spine, relieving nerve compression that causes pain and weakness.

When it’s recommended: Foraminotomy is suitable for patients with foraminal stenosis, which occurs when bone or tissue narrows the spaces through which nerves pass.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovering from back surgery requires time and commitment. Here’s what to anticipate during the healing process:

Hospital Stay

At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we offer two outpatient surgery centers where patients can return home the same day following their procedure. For cases that require a hospital stay, our surgeons operate at UNC REX Hospital, one of the top-ranked hospitals in North Carolina.

Pain Management

Pain is a normal part of the recovery process after back surgery, but it is typically managed with medication. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our surgeons work closely with you to develop a personalized pain management plan that meets your specific needs. Over time, your discomfort will gradually decrease, and following your prescribed plan will help with a smooth recovery.

Physical Therapy

Early movement is encouraged, but rehabilitation will depend on the type of surgery performed. Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Most patients will start physical therapy within a few weeks post-surgery, with a custom program developed to meet your needs.

Return to Normal Activities

Full recovery can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of surgery and your overall health. Activities such as driving, working, and exercising will gradually resume based on your surgeon’s recommendations. It’s important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during the recovery period to prevent complications.

Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and ensure that you are progressing as expected. Imaging tests may be used to confirm that the surgery was successful, and adjustments to your recovery plan may be made if necessary.

Long-Term Outlook

Back surgery is often highly effective in relieving pain and improving quality of life. However, the long-term outcome depends on the type of surgery, the condition being treated, and the patient’s commitment to post-operative care. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of your recovery and ensuring that you return to the activities you love as safely and quickly as possible.

If you’re suffering from back pain and want to explore your options for surgery, our team of spine specialists is here to help. With decades of experience and cutting-edge techniques, we offer personalized care to get you back to living pain-free.

Expert Neck & Back Care at Raleigh Orthopaedic

If you’d like to meet with one of our spine surgeons to discuss your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic. Our specialists are ready to help you get back to feeling your best. Schedule an appointment online today and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable life. Click here or call us at (919) 781-5600 to schedule an appointment with one of our neck and back specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care locations for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to see one of our physical therapists.

Orthopedic Doctors During Surgery

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.