Spinal Surgery in Ankara

What is Spinal Surgery?

Spinal surgery refers to a range of surgical procedures to correct anatomical abnormalities of the spine that cause pain, dysfunction, or neurological impairment. These abnormalities could be due to various reasons, including congenital disabilities, trauma, degenerative diseases, tumors, and infections.

The primary goal of spinal surgery is to relieve pain, restore spinal stability, and improve the overall quality of life. Procedures can range from minimally invasive interventions, which use small incisions and cause less tissue damage, to more extensive surgeries like spinal fusion or disc replacement.

How Spinal Surgery Works?

The specifics of how spinal surgery works depend on the type and complexity of the procedure. Here's a general overview:

• Accessing the Spine: The surgeon makes an incision in the back, front, or side of the body to access the spine. The approach depends on the part of the spine that needs to be addressed.
• Correcting the Problem: The surgical method is tailored to the patient's condition. For instance:
  • Decompression: Removing tissue that presses on nerves.
  • Discectomy: Removing a herniated disc that is irritating a nerve.
  • Fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.
  • Vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty: Injecting bone cement into compressed vertebrae to relieve pain and restore height.
• Closing the Incision: Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon closes the incisions with stitches or staples, and the area is bandaged.
• Recovery: Post-operative care is crucial for recovery. It typically involves medication for pain relief, physical therapy to aid movement, and regular check-ups to monitor healing.

Side Effects of Spinal Surgery

While spinal surgery can provide significant relief and improve your quality of life, like any surgical procedure, it comes with potential side effects and risks. Knowing these can help you prepare and make informed decisions about your treatment. Common side effects include:

• Pain and Discomfort: Post-operative pain is expected but usually manageable with medications. Depending on the surgery's extent, discomfort may last from a few days to several weeks.
• Infection: Any surgery carries a risk of infection, but hospitals take stringent measures to minimize this risk. 
• Nerve Damage: Although rare, accidental nerve damage can occur during surgery.
• Blood Clots: Surgery can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in the legs. 
• Reactions to Anesthesia: Some people may experience adverse reactions to anesthesia, including allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, or other complications.
• Nonunion or Pseudoarthrosis: In surgeries involving spinal fusion, there is a risk that the bones won't fuse properly, leading to continued instability or pain.

Spinal Surgery Results

The results of spinal surgery can vary depending on the individual's condition and the type of surgery performed. However, many patients experience:

• Pain Relief: One of the most immediate benefits patients notice after spinal surgery is significant pain reduction.
• Improved Mobility: Surgery can help restore range of motion and flexibility, making daily activities easier and less painful.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Spinal surgery often leads to a better quality of life by reducing pain and enhancing mobility. Many patients report improved mood, increased activity levels, and a return to hobbies and interests that were previously too painful to enjoy.
• Long-Term Stability: Surgery can provide long-term stability to the spine, preventing further deterioration for structural issues like scoliosis or severe degenerative changes.

How to Prepare for Spinal Surgery

Proper preparation can help ensure a successful surgery and recovery. Here's how to prepare for your spinal surgery:

• Medical Evaluation: You must undergo all required pre-operative tests, such as blood tests, MRI scans, and X-rays. These help your surgical team plan the procedure and anticipate potential complications.
• Discuss Medications: Talk to your surgeon about medications you're currently taking. Some drugs, like blood thinners, may need to be stopped before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can impair bone healing and overall recovery. Quitting smoking before surgery can improve your surgical outcomes.
• Nutritional Status: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help your body heal. 
• Plan for Recovery: Arrange for help at home for the initial recovery period, as your activity may be limited. Ensure that your home environment is safe to prevent falls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is spinal surgery in Turkey?

The cost of spinal surgery in Turkey can vary widely depending on the type of surgery, the complexity of the procedure, and the hospital's facilities. On average, prices range from €12,000 to €20,000, which is significantly lower than in many Western countries. It is advisable to contact specific clinics for precise quotes and to inquire about what these quotes include.

Which country is best for spine surgery?

The best country for spine surgery depends on various factors, including medical expertise, technology, cost, and patient satisfaction. Countries like the United States, Germany, and South Korea are renowned for their advanced medical technology and high standards of care. However, Turkey is also gaining recognition for combining quality care with cost-effectiveness.

How soon can you fly after spinal surgery?

Flying after spinal surgery should generally be postponed until it is safe to do so, usually around 4-6 weeks post-operation. This allows time for initial healing and reduces the risk of complications such as blood clots. However, this can vary based on the extent of the surgery and the individual's recovery, so it's important to follow your surgeon's specific advice.

Is spinal surgery a high-risk surgery?

Spinal surgery can be considered high-risk, involving vital structures such as the spinal cord and nerves. The risks depend on the type of surgery, the patient's overall health, and the specific spinal issues being addressed. Advanced planning and post-operative care are crucial to minimize risks.

Why is spine surgery a last resort?

Spine surgery is often considered a last resort because of the risks involved and the complexity of the spine. Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes are preferred as they pose less risk and can often effectively manage symptoms.

What percentage of spinal surgeries fail?

The failure rate of spinal surgeries can vary, but generally, the success rate is high. However, about 10-40% of patients may experience some form of "failed back surgery syndrome," where they continue to have pain after surgery. The exact percentage depends on the type of surgery and the patient's pre-operative condition.

How painful is spinal surgery?

The level of pain experienced after spinal surgery can vary. Most patients will experience some degree of pain post-operatively, but it is typically well managed with medications. The pain usually decreases significantly as the recovery progresses.

How successful is L4 L5 back surgery?

Surgery involving the L4-L5 vertebrae, such as a lumbar fusion or discectomy, generally has high success rates. Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms like pain and numbness. Success rates can vary but generally range from 70% to 90%.

Should a 75 year old have back surgery?

Whether a 75-year-old should have back surgery depends on the individual's overall health, the severity of symptoms, and the potential benefits versus risks of surgery. Older adults can successfully undergo spinal surgery if they are in good health, and the surgery is expected to improve their quality of life significantly.