Tag: Spine surgery

Over 400,000 interbody spinal fusions are performed in the United States each year. Despite the high frequency of this procedure, many people wonder: **Is a fusion considered an implant?** The simplest answer is no; a fusion is the biological process of bones healing together, while an implant is a medical device that a surgeon uses to facilitate this process.

While general anesthesia is common, a growing number of surgeries are performed while patients are awake, using local or regional anesthesia instead. This approach can lead to quicker recovery, fewer complications, and real-time patient feedback. Understanding **what surgeries are performed awake** can demystify the process and broaden your perspective on modern surgical options.

According to a 2018 study, over one million anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures were performed in the US between 2006 and 2013, solidifying its place as one of the most common neck surgeries. This article explores the most frequently performed surgical options for addressing issues in the cervical spine.

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, back pain affects millions of Americans annually, leading many to search for the best care. However, determining what is the best spine institute in the US is not about finding a single top-ranked name, but about finding the most suitable option for your specific needs by evaluating multiple criteria.

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, but figuring out the right doctor to see can be confusing. The term **what is a spine specialist called?** does not refer to just one type of professional but rather a broad group of experts specializing in spinal health, each with a unique role in diagnosis and treatment.

Over 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with spinal stenosis annually, a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their public profile. The experiences of notable figures who have had to ask, 'What famous people have spinal stenosis?', remind us that chronic pain is a universal challenge, even for the most recognizable faces.

According to surgical data, the approach used for an operation can significantly impact recovery and outcomes. To understand the options, it's crucial to grasp **What is the difference between anterior and posterior surgery?**, a primary consideration in many orthopedic procedures.

While a newer study may show little difference in long-term outcomes, the choice of surgical approach can significantly impact a patient's initial recovery. For complex orthopedic procedures, understanding **which is better, anterior or posterior** is vital for making an informed decision about your care.

Historically, many major surgeries involved making large incisions and cutting through significant muscle groups to reach the surgical site. A modern, often less invasive alternative, an anterior incision, is a surgical technique where a cut is made on the front (anterior) of the body, frequently allowing surgeons to work between muscles instead of through them. This muscle-sparing approach has made a profound impact on recovery times and patient outcomes in various surgical fields.

Over 80-90% of patients experience significant pain relief and functional improvement after spinal decompression surgery. However, answering the question 'How serious is decompression surgery?' is complex, as its seriousness varies based on the specific procedure, patient health, and whether a spinal fusion is also performed.