• Spinal fusion
  Back pain that is caused by degenerative disk disease, scoliosis, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, tumour, spine infection or a fracture may be treated with a spinal fusion. Spinal fusion involves the fusing of two or more vertebrae to inhibit motion of these vertebrae. Once motion is restricted, the discomfort caused by nearby nerves, muscles and ligaments is reduced.
  Depending on the area in which the pain is located, a spinal fusion may be approached through the abdomen or the back. Once an incision is made and the vertebrae are exposed, bone grafting is done by putting small pieces of bone, that have been harvested from the pelvis or site of decompression, between the vertebrae. Doing this will then stimulate bone healing and promote bone fusion. Finally, the vertebrae are held in place by rods or screws to give stability while the bones fuse.


• Minimal invasive lumbar discectomy
  Pain in the lower back that is causing symptoms such as weakness, pain, or tingling in the back area and in one of your legs, may be caused by a herniated disk in the lower back. Minimal invasive lumbar discectomy, also known as microdiscectomy, may be done to treat a herniated disc in the lower back by decreasing the pressure on the spinal nerve.
  After a small, puncture-like incision is made in the back, a small laparoscopic tube with a camera at the end, is inserted. The camera then allows the orthopaedic surgeon to locate the herniated disk. Once located, small tube-like tools are inserted to perform surgery. By moving the nerve aside, the pressure is relieved by cutting the disk away from impinging the nerve. Now that the disk is no longer putting pressure on the nerve, the nerve is put back into place, and the incision is closed.

What will recovery entail?
Recovery after spinal surgery may mean you will need to avoid vigorous activity, exercise, heavy lifting and bending for at least six weeks after surgery. After surgery, you will need to have sessions with a physiotherapist and occupational therapist to aid you in walking and getting out of bed and to help regain strength and mobility. Recovery time depends on the spinal surgery you have had, but The Tshwane Orthopaedic Sports and Rehabilitation Centre will aid in each step towards recovery.