Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure for back pain. It can serve as a treatment for degenerative disc conditions, sciatica, and radiculopathy. This procedure uses laser technology or a focused heat source to reduce the disc material compressing the nerves and spinal cord.
A traditional back surgery would require a surgeon to make incisions through the skin and muscle, which may increase the risk of soft tissue damage. In laser spine surgery, the incisions are relatively small, just enough for the surgeon to guide the laser into the body. They will carefully aim the laser beam to cut through soft tissues that may be straining the spinal cord and nerves.
If your doctor recommends laser spine surgery, here’s what you should know.
Before The Surgery
If you are a candidate for laser spine surgery, make sure to ask your surgeon questions, so you can manage your expectations and be fully aware of what to expect. Review the credentials and experience of the healthcare provider. Here are some questions you may want to ask:
- How does laser surgery work?
- Based on my condition, is a minimally invasive procedure or traditional surgery better?
- What are potential complications?
- Do I have any alternatives to laser surgery?
During The Surgery
During the procedure, your surgeon will make a tiny incision. They will aim a laser device or a focused light beam into your body. Accurate control of the beam is crucial to avoid damage to the surrounding healthy tissues.
The laser instrument can vaporize and coagulate targeted soft tissues. Your surgeon can also remove tumors from the spinal cord.
Unlike traditional surgery, a doctor performing laser surgery does not rely too much on surgical instruments. However, they may use tools to remove ligaments and bones.
After The Surgery
Since it is a minimally invasive procedure, laser spine surgery decreases the time you need to stay at the hospital or surgery center. The smaller incision also lessens post-operative bleeding, pain, and scarring, as well as the risk of complications.
Since laser spine surgery only requires minimal tissue disturbance, the recovery time is also shorter. You may need to undergo rehabilitation to strengthen back muscles, but your recovery time may be shorter than if you would have undergone traditional surgery.
Potential Complications
Laser spine surgery is safe and effective, but it is not for everyone. You will need to undergo an assessment to check if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. It is not recommended for several spine conditions and is only appropriate for certain conditions, like disc decompression.
You should also know that laser spine surgery is not entirely without risks. You have to be fully aware of potential complications that may occur during surgery. One problem is the risk of an inadequate procedure, which may warrant additional surgery down the line.
Laser surgery may provide short-term pain relief, but may not fully address the root cause. Lastly, nerve damage is also a possibility, especially under the hands of an inexperienced provider. That’s why it’s vital to have a skilled and competent surgeon carry out this delicate procedure.
Laser Spine Surgery In Colorado
Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure for treating spine problems. It aims to minimize the disruption to your daily life while still being a safe and effective treatment.
If you would like to explore laser spine surgery, visit the experts at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery today. Our team of board-certified surgeons will perform a comprehensive assessment to check if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You can rest easy in the capable hands of our highly skilled providers.
You may visit any of our clinics in Lone Tree, Parker, Colorado Springs, and Aurora. Contact us at (303) 790-1800 for questions and appointments. For more convenience, you can also request an appointment online. We look forward to being a part of your wellness journey.
