Each one of our Master Spinal Surgeons have devoted their entire career in refining and innovating various surgical techniques and are globally recognized experts.
There are numerous potential benefits to seeking care from a Master Level surgeon:
- Greater expertise: An experienced Master Level surgeon has performed thousands of surgeries and has a wealth of knowledge and skill in their field. This can lead to better outcomes and a lower risk of complications.
- Improved precision: An experienced surgeon is likely to be more precise in their surgical techniques, which can reduce the risk of errors or complications.
- Greater efficiency: An experienced surgeon may be able to perform a surgery more quickly and efficiently, which reduces operative time, anesthesia time and has been shown in multiple studies to improve patient’s short- and long-term surgical results.
- Higher success rate: Studies have shown that surgeons with more experience tend to have higher success rates for the procedures they perform.
The cervical spine is an essential component of the human body, responsible for supporting the head and providing mobility to the neck. However, injuries or degenerative conditions can lead to the need for surgical intervention to stabilize thespine and restore function. Two commonly used surgical options for the cervical spine are fusion and artificial disc replacement. While both procedures aim to improve spinal stability and function, they differ in their approach and the impact they have on biomechanics of the spine.
Fusion involves the surgical joining of two or more vertebral bones to form a single unit. The goal of fusion is to eliminate motion at the affected levels of the spine and decrease the load on the surrounding structures. This is typically achieved by placing bone grafts between the vertebral bodies and securing them with screws and metal plates or rods. Fusion can be performed using either an anterior or posterior approach.
One potential benefit of fusion is the ability to correct deformities and restore the normal alignment of the spine. Fusion also provides immediate stability to the spine, which can be especially important in cases of fractures or instability. However, fusion may also have negative effects on the biomechanics of the spine. By eliminating motion at the fused levels, the adjacent segments of the spine must compensate for the loss of motion, potentially leading to increased stress and wear on these segments. Numerous randomized prospective clinical trials show three to four times higher rates of adjacent segment degeneration in fusion patients as compared to disc replacement patients, thus leading to increased risk and need for additional surgical procedures in the future.
Artificial disc replacement involves the surgical replacement of a damaged or degenerated intervertebral disc with an artificial one. The goal of this procedure is to preserve motion at the affected level and restore the normal function of the disc. Artificial discs are typically made of metal or polyethylene and are designed to mimic the natural function of the intervertebral disc.
Among many potential benefits of artificial disc replacement is the preservation of motion at the affected level. This may help to reduce the strain on adjacent segments and potentially reduce the risk of degeneration. Artificial disc replacement is also a more appealing option for any patient who desires to remain active and to maintain a higher level of mobility. Artificial discs have now been used for over 17 years in United States and even longer in Europe with excellent long-term results being reported in the spinal literature.
Fusion and artificial disc replacement have different impacts on the biomechanics of the cervical spine. Fusion eliminates motion at the fused levels and may lead to increased stress on adjacent segments. Artificial disc replacement, on the other hand, preserves motion at the affected level and has been shown to reduce the strain on adjacent segments. This is a very important difference that we believe will have a very significant impact on the long-term well-being of patients who have failed non-operative treatment and are considering surgery as their next step.
Cervical artificial disc replacement (CDR) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out intervertebral disc in the neck is replaced with an artificial disc. CDR is typically recommended for patients with cervical disc degeneration or damage that is causing neck pain, arm pain, or neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the arms. This procedure is often considered as an alternative to spinal fusion, which involves joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts and screws or rods.
Some potential benefits of cervical artificial disc replacement over fusion include:
- Improved range of motion: Cervical artificial disc replacement can help preserve or restore the normal range of motion in the neck, which may be reduced after fusion surgery.
- Reduced risk of adjacent segment degeneration: Fusion surgery may cause adjacent vertebral segments to become stressed, leading to degeneration and potential future surgery. Cervical artificial disc replacement has been shown in multiple randomized clinical trials to reduce the risk of adjacent segment degeneration by three to four fold when compared to fusion.
- Faster recovery: Patients who undergo cervical artificial disc replacement experience a faster recovery time compared to those who have spinal fusion surgery.
- Reduced pain: Reduction in pain in seen faster after cervical artificial disc replacement compared to spinal fusion surgery.
It's important to note that CDR is not suitable for all patients, and the decision to undergo CDR or spinal fusion will depend on the specific circumstances and needs of the individual patient. It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of both options with our surgeons at The Masters Spine Institute to determine the best course of
treatment.
Cervical artificial disc replacement (CDR) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out intervertebral disc in the neck is replaced with an artificial disc. CDR is typically recommended for patients with cervical disc degeneration or damage that is causing neck pain, arm pain, or neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the arms. This procedure is often considered as an alternative to spinal fusion, which involves joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts and screws or rods.
Some potential benefits of cervical artificial disc replacement over fusion include:
- Faster recovery: Adequate nutrition can help your body heal more quickly aftersurgery.
- Stronger immune system: Good nutrition can help boost your immune system, which can help reduce the risk of infections after surgery.
- Better wound healing: Proper nutrition can help wounds heal more quickly, which is important for post-surgery recovery.
- More energy: Adequate nutrition can help you feel more energetic and able to participate in your recovery and rehabilitation.
- Reduced risk of complications: Good nutrition can help reduce the risk of complications after surgery, such as wound infections, improper healing of implants to the bone, or incomplete recovery of nerve function.
Proper nutrition is just as important for healing after surgery. The body needs a sufficient supply of nutrients to repair tissues and support the immune system. There are several ways that nutrition can support healing after surgery:
- Adequate protein is necessary for tissue repair and healing. Aim for at least 0.4 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day.
- Zinc, vitamin C, and other antioxidants may help to support the immune system and promote healing.
- Certain amino acids, such as arginine, glutamine, and omega-3 fatty acids, may also support healing and reduce inflammation.
- It is also important to stay hydrated and get enough calories to support the body's energy needs during the healing process. Starting a calorie restrictive diet right after surgery is strongly discouraged.
As part of our comprehensive surgical concierge, we will provide nutritional recommendations to ensure that you are receiving the nutrients your body needs to heal properly.
Medical conditions can be caused or affected by nutrition. For example, eating a healthy and balanced diet can help to prevent certain medical conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. On the other hand, a poor diet can contribute to the development or worsening of medical conditions described above.
In some cases, a specific medical condition may require a person to follow a special diet in order to manage their condition. For example, people with diabetes may need to pay careful attention to the amount of carbohydrates they eat in order to keep their blood sugar levels under control which is crucially important to healing. Hemoglobin A1c is one important marker of long-term blood sugar levels and we will commonly check this before surgery to make sure that our patients are in the optimal range for maximum recovery. Similarly, people with celiac disease must follow a gluten-free diet in order to manage their condition and minimize gastrointestinal and systemic inflammation.
It is important for you to be aware of how your diet can impact your health and to work with our team to determine the best nutrition plan for your specific needs and medical.
As part of our comprehensive surgical concierge, we will provide nutritional recommendations to ensure that you are receiving the nutrients your body needs to heal properly.
Prehabilitation, or prehab, refers to a type of physical and occupational therapy that is designed to improve a person's physical function and overall health before surgery. The goal of prehab is to prepare the body for the stress of surgery and to speed up the recovery process after surgery. Prehab may involve exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance, as well as nutrition counseling and education about the surgery and the recovery process. Prehab can be especially helpful for people who are in poor physical condition or have certain medical conditions that may complicate the surgery or recovery. It is important to discuss the possibility of prehab with our surgicaland therapy team before surgery to determine if it is appropriate for you.
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Rehabilitation, or rehab, is a form of treatment that helps individuals recover from surgery or an injury and regain strength, function, and mobility. Rehab can be an important part of the recovery process after surgery, as it can help to reduce the risk of complications, improve outcomes, and speed up the healing process.
There are several ways that rehab can impact surgical recovery:
- Rehab can help to reduce pain and swelling by promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation.
- It can help to restore strength and function by gradually increasing the individual's activity level and performing exercises to target specific muscle groups.
- Rehab can also help to improve mobility and flexibility, which can make it easier for the individual to perform daily activities and reduce the risk of falls or other injuries.
- Rehab can also help to improve overall physical and mental well-being by promoting a sense of accomplishment and independence.
It is important to follow the rehab plan prescribed by our surgical or therapy team in order to optimize the recovery process after surgery.
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It is not uncommon for individuals to experience setbacks during the recovery process after surgery. A setback is a temporary regression or loss of progress. Setbacks are a normal part of the healing process and can be caused by a variety of factors, including pain, fatigue, infection, or a lack of motivation.
If you experience a setback during the recovery process, it is important to set your sights on your end goal. Here are some tips for overcoming setbacks:
- Stay positive: It can be easy to get discouraged when you experience a setback, but it is important to try to maintain a positive attitude and focus on your progress.
- Follow your treatment plan: Make sure to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your surgeon or physical therapist. This can help you to continue making progress and avoid further setbacks.
- Set small, achievable goals: Setting small, achievable goals can help to keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment as you make progress.
- Seek support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can help to keep you motivated and offer encouragement.
There are several potential benefits of MISS compared to traditional open surgery:
- Smaller incisions: Minimally invasive surgery is performed through small incisions, which can result in less scarring and a faster recovery.
- Less blood loss: Because the incisions are smaller, there is usually less blood loss during minimally invasive surgery.
- Shorter hospital stays: Many people who undergo minimally invasive surgery are able to go home the same day or the day after the procedure, while those who have open surgery may need to stay in the hospital for several days.
- Faster recovery: Because the procedure is less invasive, patients may be able to return to their normal activities more quickly after minimally invasive surgery.
- Reduced pain: Many people experience less pain after minimally invasive surgery compared to open surgery.
It's important to note that minimally invasive surgery may not be suitable for all patients, and the decision to undergo the procedure should be made in consultation with one of our surgeons at The Masters Spine Institute?
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Endoscopic spine surgery, also known as endoscopically assisted spine surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat conditions of the spine. The procedure is performed using an endoscope, which is a long, thin tube with a light and a camera on the end. The endoscope is inserted through a small incision in the skin, allowing the surgeon continuous direct visualization inside the body and perform the surgery without making a large incision.
Endoscopic spine surgery is typically used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. It may also be used to remove spinal tumors or to correct spinal deformities. The benefits of endoscopic spine surgery include smaller incisions, less blood loss, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. However, the procedure may not be suitable for all patients, and the decision to undergo endoscopic surgery should be made in consultation with one of our expert surgeons at The Masters Spine Institute.
Lumbar disc replacement, also known as total disc replacement or artificial disc replacement, is a surgical procedure used to treat low back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. In this procedure, the damaged disc in the lower spine (lumbar region) is removed and replaced with an artificial disc made of metal or plastic.
There are several potential benefits to lumbar disc replacement surgery:
- Pain relief: Many people experience significant relief from back and leg pain after lumbar disc replacement surgery.
- Improved mobility: By relieving pain and restoring normal spinal motion, lumbar disc replacement surgery can help people to regain their mobility and quality of
- Reduced risk of future problems: Artificial discs are designed to preserve motion in the spine, which have been shown to reduce the risk of future problems such as degeneration of adjacent discs.
- Shorter hospital stay: Lumbar disc replacement surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that patients go home the same day as the surgery.
It's important to note that lumbar disc replacement is not suitable for everyone, and the decision to undergo the procedure should be made in consultation with one of our expert disc replacement surgeons at The Masters Spine Institute.
There are several reasons why it is important to seek expert surgical care:
- Accurate diagnosis: Expert medical care can help to ensure that a person receives an accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for receiving the appropriate treatment.
- Quality treatment: Expert surgical care can provide high-quality treatment that is tailored to a person's specific needs.
- Improved outcomes: Studies have shown that people who receive expert surgical care tend to have better outcomes compared to those who receive care from less experienced surgeons.
- Peace of mind: Seeking expert surgical care can provide peace of mind, as it can give a person confidence in the care they are receiving.
Expert medical care is not always available in every location, and it may be necessary to travel to access it. Our concierge team is ready to assist you in setting up your appointment for a complete surgical evaluation and with all your travel needs if you are an appropriate surgical candidate.
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