Back pain comes in all varieties and has a number of different causes. Fortunately there is a type of spinal surgery to address every need. 

Below are some of the more commonly performed types of spinal surgery. 

Spinal Surgeries for Back Pain

Spinal fusion

A spinal fusion involves fusing together two or more vertebrae to create a single immobile unit. By creating a single unit, the motion that takes place between the vertebrae is eliminated. It is this motion that is often a source of pain resulting from bending, twisting, or lifting. Spinal fusion can also be used to stop the progression of scoliosis or other deformities, treat injuries, or stabilize a loose vertebrae. 

Microdiscectomy

During a microdiscectomy, a herniated disc is removed through a small incision along with a portion of the bone covering the spinal canal. Herniated discs are commonly responsible for back pain.

Artificial disc replacement

When a spinal disc is damaged beyond repair, it can be removed and replaced with an artificial one. 

Laminectomy 

Sometimes the source of back pain can be a narrowing of the spinal column. When this is the case, a laminectomy can be performed to widen the column by removing the backside of the spinal canal along with any spurs that may have formed. 

Vertebroplasty

A vertebroplasty is most often performed as a result of a compression fracture of the vertebrae. A cement-like material is injected into the vertebrae with a needle and bonds together the fractured pieces of bone. 

Foraminotomy

A foraminotomy can relieve pain associated with a compressed nerve in the spine. The space where nerves exit the spine is widened by cutting away bones on the side of the vertebrae, releasing the pressure and easing pain. 

Interlaminar implant

This type of spinal surgery involves implanting a U-shaped device between two vertebrae to maintain their space and ease the pressure on spinal nerves. 

Find the Right Type of Spinal Surgery For You

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment at Carolinas Center for Surgery to see if there’s a type of spinal surgery that might provide relief.

  • Consistent back pain for at least three weeks.
  • Pain that gets worse at night.
  • Pain that is accompanied by a fever.
  • Pain that radiates into the legs.
  • Pain that began after an accident or fall.
  • Numbness or weakness in the legs.
  • Consistent bladder or bowel problems.

Call (252) 247-2101 for any further questions about our spinal surgery services.