3 things you need to know before your back surgery
Are you or someone you know preparing for back surgery? If so, you should learn a few essential things before going under the knife. According to a study, spine surgery is one of the most common and costly procedures in the United States.
Back surgery is a big step, and it’s expected to create a lot of questions and maybe even make you feel a little scared. But before you schedule your surgery, it’s crucial to understand the risks and potential outcomes. Here are the top three things you need to know before your back surgery.
Different Types of Back Surgery
There are quite a few types of back surgery. We explain everything provided at our facilities in detail on our website. Here are some helpful links if you would like to find out more about different kinds of back surgery:
- Microdiscectomy
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
- Foraminotomy
- Laminectomy
- MicroEndoscopic Discectomy (MED)
- Laminoplasty
- Spinal Fusion
- Posterior Lateral Fusion (PLF)
- Posterior (Transforaminal) Lateral Interbody Fusion (P/TLIF)
- Anterior Discectomy Fusion Instrumentation
- Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
- Direct Lateral interbody Fusion (DLIF)
- Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)
- Corpectomy
- Smith Peterson Osteotomy (SPO)
- Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO)
- Vertebrectomy
- Cervical Disc Arthroplasty
- Lumbar Disc Arthroplasty
3 Things You Need to Know Before Your Back Surgery
These simple tips will not only put your mind at ease but also help you make the most of your surgery and improve your chances of a speedy recovery. So, let’s start by ensuring you’re fully prepared for your upcoming procedure.
- Understand Why You Need Surgery
The first thing you should know is why you need back surgery. This might seem obvious, but it’s essential to understand your condition and how surgery will help.
Common Reasons for Back Surgery
- Herniated Disc: This happens when a cushion-like pad between the bones in your spine slips out of place and presses on nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: It occurs when the spaces in your spine become too narrow, pinching your spinal cord and nerves.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: This is when the discs in your spine start to break down due to wear and tear, causing pain.
- Scoliosis: This is a condition where the spine curves unusually.
How Surgery Can Help
Your doctor might suggest surgery if other treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections haven’t worked. Surgery can:
- Relieve Pain: Removing or fixing the part of the spine causing pain.
- Restore Function: By helping you move better.
- Prevent Further Damage: By stopping the condition from getting worse.
It’s essential to ask your doctor to explain in simple terms why surgery is the best option for you. Be bold and ask questions when you feel comfortable.
- Know What to Expect During and After Surgery
Knowing what will happen during and after surgery can help you feel more prepared and less nervous.
The Day of Surgery
- Arrival: You’ll go to the hospital or surgical center on the day of your surgery. The night before, you should stop eating and drinking.
- Preparation: Nurses will help you get ready. This might include changing into a hospital gown and getting an IV (a small tube in your vein) for fluids and medicine.
- Anesthesia: You’ll get medicine to make you sleep and not feel pain during the surgery.
During Surgery
- Procedure: The type of surgery depends on your condition. Common types include:
- Discectomy: Removing a herniated disc.
- Laminectomy: Removing part of the bone or tissue pressing on nerves.
- Spinal Fusion: Joining two or more bones in the spine to stop them from moving.
After Surgery
- Recovery Room: You’ll wake up in a recovery room where nurses will check on you.
- Pain Management: You’ll get medicine to help with pain.
- Activity: You might be encouraged to walk around after surgery to help you recover.
- Hospital Stay: Depending on your surgery, you might go home the same day or stay in the hospital for a few days.
At Home
- Follow Instructions: Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for yourself at home. This might include taking it easy, avoiding certain activities, and doing exercises to help you heal.
- Follow-Up Visits: You’ll have follow-up visits with your doctor to ensure healing.
- Prepare Yourself Mentally and Physically
Getting ready for surgery is not just about your body but also about your mind.
Physical Preparation
- Stay Active: If you can, stay active before surgery. Gentle exercises can help keep your muscles strong.
- Healthy Eating: Eat nutritious foods to help your body stay strong and heal faster.
- Stop Smoking: If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking can make it harder for your body to heal.
Mental Preparation
- Stay Positive: It’s normal to feel nervous but try to stay positive. Focus on the surgery’s benefits and how it will help you feel better.
- Ask for Support: Talk to friends and family about your feelings. They can offer support and help you prepare.
- Relaxation Techniques: To reduce stress, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music.
If you live in Palm Beach County, we encourage you to see our Orthopedic spine surgeon – Dr. Matthew Hepler. Dr. Hepler is a fellowship-trained adult and pediatric spine surgeon with leading expertise in diagnosing and treating spine conditions.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Recovering from back surgery takes time. Here are some tips to help you heal faster:
- Follow Instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. This includes taking your medicine, doing any recommended exercises, and avoiding activities that could hurt your back.
- Stay Active: Gentle activities like walking can help you recover. But avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting until your doctor says it’s okay.
- Eat Healthy: Eating a healthy diet can help your body heal. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Rest: Make sure to get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to heal.
- Stay Positive: Recovery can be challenging, but try to stay positive. Focus on the progress you are making each day.
Back Surgery statistics
Did you know that:
- Less than 10% of all patients with back-related conditions require back surgery?
- About 400,000 people in the United States undergo spinal surgery each year?
- There were just over 150,000 spinal fusion surgeries in 1993; by 2007, the number had more than doubled to 350,7541
- The indirect annual costs of back-pain related conditions in America are over $100 billion
Trust Your Back Surgery to Dr. Matthew Hepler
Back surgery is a big decision, but knowing what to expect can make it less scary. Remember to understand why you need surgery, know what to expect during and after the procedure, and mentally and physically prepare yourself.
A skilled and caring doctor is crucial if you’re considering back surgery. Dr. Matthew Hepler, one of the best spine surgeons in South Florida, is a highly experienced back surgeon who can provide the best care. Experience our top-quality care by visiting one of our clinics near you:
Don’t hesitate to reach out and start your journey to better health today!
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The material on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
