Information regarding spinal surgery
How is the spine constructed and what function does it perform?
The human spine consists of 33 vertebral bodies, divided into the cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine, sacrum and coccyx. The spinal cord, which creates connections to the central and peripheral nervous system, runs within the vertebral bodies, the so-called spinal canal. The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebral bodies. They provide suspension and protection between the individual vertebral bodies. However, intervertebral discs also limit the mobility of the vertebral bodies in order to counteract abnormal force relationships.
As the spine is subject to heavy loads, particularly in the lower area, pain can occur over time and, as a result, discomfort and damage to the nerve fibers and vessels running through it. Most diseases that affect the spine are caused by wear and tear of the vertebral bodies in old age, but excessive, incorrect loads, genetic and acquired diseases can also lead to spinal problems.
There are a number of diseases that can affect the spine, including: herniated discs, degenerative and inflammatory diseases, spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage), scoliosis, intraspinal tumors or trauma.
Frequently performed spinal surgeries
The symptoms, the precise medical history and an adequate physical examination, which should be clinical and visual, can narrow down the cause of back pain or provide information about it and therefore show a precise treatment plan.
In addition to treatment with conservative therapies, spinal surgery is also the focus. Spinal surgery can generally be performed from the ventral (from the abdomen) or dorsal (from the back). The standard for spinal surgery today is endoscopic-assisted surgery, which provides access via a small camera using an endoscope. It is the minimally invasive method and also involves the lowest risks.
Frequently performed spinal surgeries are:
- Disc surgeries
- Surgery for spinal canal stenosis
- Scoliosis surgeries
- Spinal stabilization for vertebral fractures (spondylodesis, kyphoplasty)
Which specialists and clinics are specialists in carrying out or providing a second opinion on spinal surgery?
Anyone who needs a doctor wants the best medical care for themselves. That is why the patient asks themselves, where can I find experienced clinics for spinal surgery in Germany?
The University Hospital of Bonn is one of the best hospitals in Germany for spinal treatment.
As this question cannot be answered objectively and a reputable doctor would never claim to be the best doctor, one can only rely on the experience of a doctor. The more spinal surgeries a doctor or center performs, the more experienced they become in their field. Specialists for spinal surgery are therefore specialists in neurosurgery or orthopedics who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and operation of diseases or injuries to the spine.
