What is Motion Preservation Surgery?
Motion preservation spine surgery is a type of surgery that is used to treat conditions that affect the spine. This type of surgery is typically used to treat patients who have degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or other conditions that can cause pain or loss of mobility.
Motion preservation spine surgery is a minimally invasive spine surgery that helps to preserve the patient’s range of motion. This type of surgery employs minimally invasive techniques, which lead to shorter recovery times and reduced pain. It is typically performed using a small incision and special instruments. The goal of motion preservation spine surgery is to relieve the pain and restore the function of the spine.
Motion Preservation vs. Spine Fusion Surgery
The spine is a column of vertebrae that protects the spinal cord. The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spine. Intervertebral discs are the cushions between the vertebrae. When these discs degenerate or herniate, they can press on nerves and cause pain.
Spine fusion is a surgical technique used to correct this by fusing two or more vertebrae together, thereby eliminating motion between them. Traditional methods include anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), which involves removing a damaged disc and fusing the adjacent vertebrae. This can be done using traditional methods, which involve using metal rods and screws to stabilize the spine, or by using newer, innovative surgical techniques that preserve motion.
Motion preservation surgery is a newer, less invasive surgical technique that uses artificial disc replacement to allow for continuous motion between the fused vertebrae. This type of surgery has become increasingly popular as it offers patients a shorter recovery time and fewer complications than conventional spine surgery.
Benefits of Motion Preservation Surgery
Motion preservation surgery is an alternative to spinal fusion. It is a type of surgery that is used to treat problems with the spine. The benefits of motion preservation surgery, a minimally invasive surgery, include a decrease in back pain, an increase in range of motion, and a decrease in the need for spinal fusion for patients with lumbar spine problems. Motion preservation surgery is also less invasive than spinal fusion and can be performed on patients with lumbar spine conditions.
Recovery Time After Motion Preserving Spine Surgery
After a motion preserving spine surgery, your body will need time to heal. While each patient is different, many surgeons will advise their patients to take at least six weeks off from work after this surgery. You can help your recovery by staying active and adhering to your doctor’s instructions. You may also work with a physical therapist after your surgery to help you regain as much mobility as possible.
Schedule a Consultation With a Spine Surgeon
If you are considering motion preservation surgery, it is important to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon. During the consultation, the spine surgeon will evaluate your individual case and determine whether or not this type of surgery is right for you. Motion preservation surgery is a complex procedure, so it is important to ensure you get the best possible care.
If you are looking for a consultation regarding motion preservation surgery, you can schedule an appointment with us. We will be able to discuss the best options for you and help you decide whether or not this type of surgery is right for you. Call Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery at (855)-853-6542 to schedule a consultation.
Q&A
What is motion preservation spine surgery, and how does it differ from spinal fusion surgery?
Motion preservation spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at treating spine conditions while maintaining the spine’s natural movement. It involves techniques like artificial disc replacement. In contrast, spinal fusion surgery involves fusing two or more vertebrae to eliminate motion between them, which may reduce flexibility in the spine. Motion preservation surgery is often preferred due to shorter recovery times and the ability to preserve motion.
When is spinal fusion surgery necessary for cervical or lumbar spine issues?
Spinal fusion surgery is necessary when a patient experiences severe cervical or lumbar spine instability, such as from degenerative disc disease or trauma. It’s often recommended when motion preservation spine surgery is not feasible, or when maintaining spinal movement could worsen the patient’s condition. Fusion stabilizes the spine, reducing pain but limiting flexibility.
What are the benefits of motion preservation surgery compared to traditional spine fusion surgery?
Motion preservation surgery offers several advantages over traditional spinal fusion surgery. Patients often experience faster recovery times, less postoperative pain, and the preservation of spinal flexibility, especially in the cervical and lumbar spine regions. By maintaining motion, it may also reduce the likelihood of future complications that can arise from adjacent vertebrae compensating for the fused area.
Can motion preservation spine surgery be used to treat lumbar spine conditions?
Yes, motion preservation spine surgery is commonly used to treat conditions affecting the lumbar spine, such as degenerative disc disease or herniated discs. This minimally invasive approach can relieve pain while preserving the spine’s range of motion, offering an alternative to spinal fusion surgery for patients with lumbar spine issues.
What is the recovery time for motion preservation spine surgery compared to spinal fusion surgery?
Recovery time for motion preservation spine surgery is generally shorter than that of spinal fusion surgery. Many patients can return to normal activities within six weeks after motion preservation surgery, whereas spinal fusion surgery can take several months for full recovery due to the healing required for the fused vertebrae to stabilize.