A range of surgical procedures to treat conditions affecting the vertebrae, discs and spinal nerves.

What is spine surgery?

• Spine surgery is a procedure used to treat problems affecting the spine, spinal cord, or nerves
• It may help reduce pain, improve movement, restore stability, and improve quality of life.
• Surgery is usually considered only after non-surgical treatments have not provided enough relief

When might I need spine surgery?

• Spine surgery may be recommended if you have:
• Severe or long-lasting back or neck pain
• Pain spreading to the arms or legs
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Your doctor may suggest surgery if medicines, physiotherapy, or exercise are not helping enough

What conditions can spine surgery treat?

• Spine surgery may help treat:
• Slipped or herniated disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Spine fractures
• Scoliosis or abnormal spinal curvature
• Spinal instability
• Degenerative spine conditions
• Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable treatment based on your condition

What are the different types of spine surgeries?

• The type of spine surgery depends on your condition, symptoms, and overall spine health
• Common spine surgeries include:
• Discectomy: Removes part of a slipped or damaged disc pressing on nerves
• Laminectomy: Removes a small portion of bone to reduce pressure on nerves or the spinal cord
• Spinal Fusion: Joins two or more vertebrae to improve stability
• Kyphoplasty/Vertebroplasty: Treats certain spinal fractures
• Cervical Spine Surgery: Treats problems in the neck region of the spine
• Scoliosis Surgery: Corrects abnormal spinal curvature
• Tumor Surgery: Removes tumors affecting the spine
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Uses smaller incisions for faster recovery
• Your spine specialist will recommend the most suitable procedure based on your diagnosis and symptoms

What is minimally invasive spine surgery?

• Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions than traditional surgery
• It may lead to:
• Less pain after surgery
• Reduced blood loss
• Smaller scars
• Faster recovery
• Shorter hospital stay
• Not every patient is suitable for this type of surgery

How should I prepare before surgery?

• Follow all instructions given by your healthcare team
• You may need:
• Medical tests and physical examination
• Blood tests or scans
• Changes to your medications
• Help arranged at home after surgery
• Stop smoking and alcohol if advised by your doctor
• Eat a healthy, protein-rich diet before surgery to support healing

Why is nutrition important before spine surgery?

• Good nutrition helps your body heal and recover better after surgery
• Protein-rich foods may help improve wound healing and muscle strength
• Examples include:
• Eggs
• Milk or yogurt
• Chicken or fish
• Beans and lentils
• Tofu and dairy products
• Tell your doctor if you are losing weight or eating less than usual

Can I eat or drink before surgery?

• Your doctor will give specific instructions about eating and drinking
• In most cases:
• No solid food after midnight before surgery
• Clear liquids may be allowed up to a few hours before surgery
• Follow your doctor’s advice carefully to reduce complications during anesthesia

Why is early walking important after surgery?

• Walking early after surgery helps:
• Improve blood circulation
• Reduce the risk of blood clots
• Improve muscle strength
• Support faster recovery
• Your nurse or therapist will help you walk safely after surgery

What are the risks of spine surgery?

• Like all surgeries, spine surgery may have some risks and complications
• Possible risks may include:
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Blood clots
• Ongoing pain or stiffness
• In rare cases, paralysis may occur because the surgery is performed close to the spinal cord and nerves
• Your surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks before surgery

How long does recovery take after spine surgery?

• Recovery time varies depending on:
• Type of surgery
• Your age and overall health
• Your activity level before surgery
• Some patients recover within a few weeks, while others may need several months
• Following rehabilitation and exercise advice is important for recovery

Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?

• Some patients may need physiotherapy to:
• Improve flexibility and strength
• Learn safe movement techniques
• Improve balance and walking
• Your healthcare team will guide you on the exercises that are safe for you

What should I avoid after spine surgery?

• Avoid:
• Heavy lifting
• Sudden twisting or bending
• Smoking and alcohol
• Skipping medicines or exercises advised by your doctor
• Follow all wound care and activity instructions carefully

When should I contact my doctor after surgery?

• Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
• Fever
• Increased pain
• Redness or swelling around the wound
• Drainage from the surgical area
• Difficulty walking
• New numbness or weakness
• Early medical attention can help prevent complications

Myths & Facts

Frequently Asked Questions