Advanced
Laser Spine Treatment
Surgery in Hyderabad

Laser Spine Treatment: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care

The procedure for laser spine surgery is divided into three different phases: pre-operative phase, intra-operative phase, and post-operative phase. These phases are designed to ensure patient safety, accuracy of procedure, and optimal recovery. The pre-operative stage is examining the patient and making them ready for surgery, which is followed by the surgical procedure itself during the intraoperative stage, and finally the post-operative stage, where the patient returns to normal activities after surgery becomes an essential objective.

Before the Laser Spine Surgery

Initial examination begins with the surgeon examining the symptoms shown by the patient, namely back pain, radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness, to get to know the specific nerves, groups of nerves that are affected by a disease, injury, or condition.

A neurological assessment is carried out to check reflexes, the strength of muscles, and sensory responses. This is followed by diagnosis by using imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine disc herniation, nerve compression, or changes in soft tissue that are the reasons for the appearance of symptoms.

Additional imaging, such as computed tomography scans or X-rays, may be ordered to evaluate bone alignment or any deteriorating changes in the spine.

After completion of this, the decision is up to the surgeon to decide if the patient’s disease condition can be effectively treated by using laser techniques or if any other surgical technique is needed.

The patient is then provided a guidance by the surgeon about the expected results, shortcomings of the laser surgery, possible risks, and any other treatment options that are available.

Periodic blood evaluations, Electrocardiograms, and pre-anesthesia examinations are carried out to make sure that the patient is in perfect condition to undergo surgical treatment. If the patient is already dealing with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, they are stabilized first, and medicines such as blood thinners are adjusted.

The patient is then advised not to eat anything for 6 to 8 hours before the laser spinal procedure to make sure that anesthesia can be safely given. Instructions are given to the patient regarding bathing, shaving, and preparing the skin for surgery. Final okay from the patient is taken, and then the surgeon informs the patient that surgery, being a day-care or an overnight stay, is mandatory.

Intra-Operating Procedure

The phase starts with giving the patient anesthesia. First, the patient is taken into the operating room and is asked to lie face down to give the surgeon all necessary approach angles to the spinal cord.

Local anesthesia is given, with sedation or light general anesthesia is given, and essential signs are routinely kept an eye upon. The surgical site is then sterilised with an antiseptic solution, and sterile drapes are applied to keep a pollution-free environment. Fluoroscopy (live X-ray guidance) is kept in position to assist the surgeon in precisely targeting the affected level of the spinal cord.

A tiny cut measuring 5-8 mm long is made on the skin overlying the affected area of the spinal cord. A narrow tubular retractor is then inserted through the cut to create a way to the disc or compressed nerve without cutting any major muscles. The surgeon then advances a laser probe via this tubular channel while simultaneously keeping an eye on the area on the imaging monitors.

Controlled laser energy is utilised to lessen or vaporize the herniated disc material or soft tissue pressing against the nerve. The surgeon then works slowly and accurately to pacify the nerve while protecting the nearby structures. Fluoroscopy is utilised again to confirm that the nerve has been sufficiently decompressed and the pressure is reduced.

The instruments and the retractors are then removed, and the small cut is closed with the help of a single suture, adhesive glue, or a strip. After completion of this procedure, the patient is then shifted to the recovery room for observation.

After the Laser spinal surgery

During the immediate recovery phase, the patient is kept under continuous observation as the effects of anesthesia start to decrease. Systematic monitoring of important parameters is conducted, with the level of pain and the neurological condition being the main focus.

Most patients are encouraged to sit up and walk a few hours after the surgery is finished to increase blood circulation in the body and decrease stiffness.

The pain after laser spine surgery is usually very little due to the small cuts, but the patient may still be provided with painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. Antibiotics are prescribed in some cases, depending on the type of surgery. The patient can begin light activities within 24-48 hours that include slight walking and continuous movements.

Heavy lifting, bending, or twisting, or any activity that causes stress, should not be done by the patient until 2-4 weeks after the surgery procedure to protect the healing tissues.

The area of operation must be kept clean and dry by the patient. The patient should only change the dressing upon advice from the doctor. The patient is then advised by the surgeon to keep an eye on any sort of redness, swelling, or fever.

The first follow-up occurs 7-10 days to examine the healing of the wound. If the patient feels necessary, additional visits may be scheduled based on the progress of recovery or for any re-evaluations.

Physical evaluation begins after the initial 2-3 weeks to strengthen the back, improve the posture, and prevent any recurrence of spinal issues. Exercises should focus on helping the patient to gain core stability, flexibility, and gradual strength.

After laser spine surgery, most patients return to office-based work within 3-7 days, depending on the comfort of the patient and the rate of recovery. Heavy sports and physical activity after laser spine surgery can only be begun after 6-8 weeks under medical guidance.

Benefits of Laser Spine Treatment at Yashoda Hospitals

• Minimally invasive
• Decreased pain
• Quick recovery
• Less risk of complications
• Tissue preservation
• Preservation of spinal stability
• Effectiveness in treating some conditions.