7 Common Myths Busted: Facts On Spine Surgery

Orthopedics & Joint Replacement | by Dr. Ashok Kumar Das | Published on 04/07/2022

Overview

Have you tried every possible option including exercise, and pain relievers but still your back pain is not going away? And the next question that arises in your mind is whether you need to undergo spine surgery or not. Yes, spine surgery is often considered the last resort treatment for spinal issues.

But you may hesitate to take such a decision. Because there are so many myths floating around, that can create misunderstandings about spinal surgery. Here we’ve debunked seven such myths with the help of our experts from the best orthopedic hospital in Kolkata. 

Myth: If you visit a spine surgeon, you will end up having it.

Fact: This is definitely incorrect information. Most highly experienced spine surgeons see their patients on a regular basis to discuss spine surgery. While surgery is required for a few spine diseases, the great majority of back problems can be treated without it. Spine surgery is advised when a patient has severe or excruciating back pain. Hence, spine surgery is completely dependent on medical reports and conditions.

Myth: All spine surgeries are major procedures.

Fact:  Although the spine is a massive and complex structure, that does not mean that the surgery is. Many spinal diseases can now be treated using minimally invasive (keyhole) procedures that reduce scarring, post-operative pain, and infection allowing for a significantly faster recovery. Even if keyhole surgery is not an option, advances in spinal surgical techniques and procedures such as computer navigation, intra-operative neuro monitoring, and robotic surgery have made even the most complex spine surgeries considerably faster and safer than conventional methods.

Myth: All spine surgeries are risky.

Fact:  Spine surgery is a relatively safe procedure. Currently, minimally invasive spine surgery is performed with a smaller incision, a shorter recovery period, and fewer complications. When compared to minimally invasive spinal treatment, the open surgical procedure takes longer, leaves a larger scar, and requires a longer recovery period. Minimally invasive spine surgery may result in the patient being discharged the very next day and returning to work within two days, depending on the type of spine surgery.

Myth: You will have to stay in bed for months after surgery.

Fact: With the advancement of medical technology, the recovery time after spine surgeries have reduced in comparison to previous times. The patient can walk properly after 1-2 days. They may even go about their daily activities as usual.

MIS (Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery) techniques cause reduced pain, a smaller scar, improved mobility, and a shorter hospital stay. The surgeon will determine whether the procedure would be conducted using an open approach or a minimally invasive technique based on the conditions you are suffering from.

Myth: The surgery will cause more pain.

Fact: Patients frequently express anxiety that they may experience more pain following surgery than they did before. While there is some discomfort during the recuperation period, it is significantly less severe than traditional surgical procedures.

Minimally invasive spinal surgery reduces the amount of pain you experience after your procedure by employing a smaller incision location.

You may expect some pain and discomfort following surgery, but you can minimize it by consulting with your doctor about a pain management plan. Our surgeons will create a tailored treatment plan based on the spinal condition you are suffering from.

Myth: You will have a restricted lifestyle after spine surgery.

Fact: As suggested by our best orthopedic in Kolkata, spine surgery seeks to restore the patient's quality of life as much as feasible. Activities may be restricted depending on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health. In many circumstances, there will be no restrictions other than not taking unnecessary risks with the spine, which applies to everyone.

Myth: You will become addicted to painkillers after surgery.

Fact: Opioids are extremely potent pain relievers that are frequently recommended for post-surgical pain, and they are highly addictive too. Don't be alarmed if your doctor prescribes opioids. They will work closely with you to ensure that you are taking them safely and correctly.

Instead of opioids, your doctor may recommend nerve pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory meds to help with pain relief.

Remember that you will not be exclusively reliant on medicine when healing from spine surgery. Non-medicinal measures of healing, such as physical therapy or rehab, are also commonly prescribed by doctors.

If you or someone you know is suffering from chronic back pain, then do not delay your consultation with our elite group of the best orthopedic doctors in Kolkata.