Laser spine surgery is a non-invasive procedure that is different from traditional spinal surgeries. In this procedure, a laser is used to remove the tissues around the spinal cord and nerves.
Laser spine surgery is different from regular invasive surgeries in the sense that no incision takes place in this method. Moreover, the traditional method takes a longer healing time and needs a prolonged recovery period. Conventional spine surgeries also come with the risk of tissue damage.
Laser spine surgery is still relatively unknown, and it’s becoming more popular among the public. Professionals are of the opinion that laser spinal surgery is beneficial in many more ways than the traditional variety.
How does laser spine surgery work?
Most often, a bone spur or herniated disc in the spine can cause compression. It leads to conditions like sciatica, where the sciatic nerve gets pinched, leading to discomfort or pain in the lower back.
In this case, doctors can use laser surgery to decompress the nerves. Local anesthesia is used to numb the muscles around your back, and you won’t feel the pain of the procedure.
PLDD or percutaneous laser disc decompression is a popular and well-researched laser back surgery. This procedure removes the disc tissues responsible for the back pain and compression of the nerves.
A tiny probe with a laser is penetrated into the affected disc in this method and carefully removes the tissue which is causing the compression. This entire procedure takes place with the help of image technology.
It is a quick recovery method, and in most cases, the patient is discharged on the same day. To see a positive outcome, it is crucial to visit an expert in the field.
Central NJ Spine has one of the topmost doctors who are experts in laser spine surgery. People over at Central NJ Spine will do a minute check-up on how safe it is to go for this treatment. Hence, it is a safe place to opt for if you are considering laser spine surgery.
Benefits of laser spine surgery
- One of the many benefits of laser spine surgery is that it is minimally-invasive.
- It is performed under local anesthesia and in an outpatient setting.
- Laser spine surgery is a quick healing procedure; therefore, the patient can leave the hospital on the very same day.
- When laser surgery is conducted by an expert and experienced professional, it reduces the chances of tissue or nerve damage.
Cons of laser spine surgery
Laser surgery isn’t recommended for everyone, and it won’t work in all cases. Doctors can’t perform laser spine surgery for conditions like-
- Degenerative spine diseases
- Large disc herniation
- In certain cases, you might need an additional surgery following laser spine surgery.
- Laser heat can damage the surrounding tissues or bones
- If proper sanitization is not followed, the surgery may lead to infections
How much does laser spine surgery cost?
There is no fixed rate of laser spine surgery for everyone. It varies depending on several factors. For instance, every state may have different rates for the treatment and also every clinic.
Additionally, the intensity of the damage also determines the cost of the treatment. Also, due to the advanced technology it requires, laser spine surgery can cost anywhere between $30,000 to $90,000.
You should also keep in mind post surgical check-up costs and medications as well. In comparison, laser spine surgery costs a bit more than the traditional procedure.
Recovery time
Recovery time also differs from individual to individual. While some people may show recovery and effectiveness in a very short span, there, on the other hand, some others might take longer.
The healing time of laser spine surgery is quite fast compared to traditional surgeries. While traditional spine surgery might take up to twelve weeks for the patient to recover, in laser surgery, you can get same day discharge.
Additionally, in a typical surgical procedure, you will have to stay in the hospital for a few days. In laser spine surgery, you can return to work in five to six weeks.
Concluding words
To conclude, it is safe to say that laser spine surgery is quite an effective alternative to the traditional methods. This less invasive and quick surgery will help you recover from any nerve compression around the spine.
However, there are limitations to this procedure. As discussed above, doctors can’t perform lasers for intense back or spinal damage and have to consider the traditional surgical procedure.
Hopefully, this guide helped you understand about laser spine surgery and helped clear your confusion regarding the same. Make sure you go to a professional expert in case you opt for the treatment!