Debunking Myths About Laser Spine Surgery

This article is for the purposes of debunking myths about laser spine surgery. The first thing that a person needs to do is to find out if they are a candidate for this type of procedure. Before going under the knife, it is important that you try all the available alternatives and if you still have a problem, you can opt to have surgery. There are many alternatives that a person could try and this includes pain medication, massage and even physical therapy. If you are still having problems, then your physician might recommend that you go for surgery.

Myth #1: Laser spine surgery can cure everyone

Not everyone can be cured but the doctor will be honest with you and you will be told upfront if you can be assisted. The doctor will not provide you with false hope or information. In addition, even after surgery, you might still continue to experience pain, and so you should have realistic expectations when you go to consult with a doctor. However, modern medicine has grown in leaps and bounds and the things that doctors could not do before are now possible. The doctor will therefore do his best to offer you relief from discomfort and pain.

Myth #2: Recovery time is the same as traditional spine surgery

The good thing about going for surgery is the fact that nowadays we have modern techniques of performing surgeries. The result is that the surgery will be minimally invasive and the surgery can deal with problems in your soft tissue and even bone issues. The good thing about such a technique is the fact that you can be given smaller incisions as well as conscious sedation leading to fewer complications and lower risks. After your surgery, it is recommended that a person takes it easy for a while and avoid bending or lifting heavy objects.

Myth #3: There are no complications

Depending on the problem, whether you have had prior surgery and the amount of nerve damage, your results will vary. Fewer complications can be expected if a person has not had prior surgery, but majority of the patients have good to excellent results. However, a patient needs to know that complications can arise and most common are infections in your disc space after you have had a discectomy. You can discuss with your physician the associated risks and your physician will be able to advice you accordingly. You can even seek a third opinion just to be absolutely sure.

Myth #4: There are no pre-op instructions to follow

Before having surgery, you should avoid certain medications especially the ones that might increase bleeding. Anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin should be avoided fourteen to twenty one days before surgery. Blood thinners should be stopped three to five days before you have surgery and it is also recommended that the patient discontinues taking vitamin a and e a few days before surgery. Before having your surgery, you should make arrangements to have someone drive you to the health facility. In addition, bring enough health supplies and clothing that can last you five to seven days. Hotel accommodation can also be arranged if you live more than one hour from the facility.