Surgical Treatment for Spinal Osteoarthritis: What You Need to Know

Spinal osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the joints in the spine. It is a common condition as people age and can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. While Dr. Sina Rajamand and his team at Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno provide non-surgical treatments for spinal osteoarthritis, sometimes surgery is required to provide relief from pain and restore mobility.

What is Spinal Osteoarthritis?

Spinal osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage that cushions the joints in the spine breaks down over time. This can cause the bones in the spine to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness and decreased mobility. Spinal osteoarthritis can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most commonly found in the lower back and neck.

Surgical Treatment Options

While there are many non-surgical treatments available for spinal osteoarthritis, sometimes surgery is required to provide relief. Here are some of the surgical treatment options Dr. Rajamand may recommend for spinal osteoarthritis:

1. Spinal Fusion: Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure in which two or more vertebrae are fused together. This is done to stabilize the spine and reduce pain and discomfort. During the procedure, Dr. Rajamand will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the affected area and then fuse the adjacent vertebrae together using metal screws, rods or plates.
2. Laminectomy: A laminectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the vertebral bone (the lamina) is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This procedure is typically done to treat spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal. During the procedure, Dr. Rajamand will remove the lamina and any other structures that are compressing the spinal cord or nerves.
3. Discectomy: A discectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the intervertebral disc is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This procedure is typically done to treat a herniated disc, which is when the soft center of the disc pushes out through a crack in the outer layer. During the procedure, Dr. Rajamand removes the damaged portion of the disc.
4. Artificial Disc Replacement: Artificial disc replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged intervertebral disc is replaced with an artificial one. This procedure is typically done to treat a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. During the procedure, Dr. Rajamand removes the damaged disc and replaces it with an artificial one.

Reno Minimally Invasive Spinal Osteoarthritis Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with surgical treatment for spinal osteoarthritis. However, Dr. Rajamand specializes in using minimally invasive techniques with small incisions to reduce the risks of infection, bleeding, nerve damage and blood clots. Your recovery is much easier and faster with minimally invasive spine surgery.

Surgical treatment options for spinal osteoarthritis can provide relief for those who are suffering from pain and discomfort. Contact Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno, Nevada, if you suffer from spinal osteoarthritis. We can perform an exam and recommend the best treatment for your condition.