Back pain surgery is considered to be the last step for treating back pain. It is not recommended unless all other options of treatment have been tried and unless emergency surgery is required. Back pain surgery, is not performed only for pain. This is done to treat a neurological symptom such as numbness or motor weakness. Different types of surgery can be performed according to the diagnosis. These are:
Nerve Decompression. This technique is done in older people whose spinal conditions cause nerve irritation or damage. Spinal stenosis, is done in which the spinal canal is narrowed, because of enlarged ligaments or bony growths.
Fusion of Bony Segments. Involves fusion of two or more bony fragments or entire vertebrae, using a metalwork. This provides strength and stability to the spine and relieves pain.
Correction of Deformities. The deformities can be either congenital, or caused by traumatic fractures. In this technique, the bony fragments are removed or stability provision for the spine is done.
