Spinal Fusion Specialist Richardson
Many Americans will face some sort of back pain, neck pain or spinal cord injury during the course of their life. In some cases, the problem is beyond repair, and some portion of the spine actually needs replacement. The most common form of such replacement is a spinal fusion.
A spine fusion procedure may be recommended to help reduce or eliminate the pain, or to help heal the spine injury. Spinal fusion is a complex spine surgery procedure to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in your spine.
The goal of a fusion surgery is to eliminate any motion between the vertebrae that are fused, in turn minimizing pain caused by that motion.
Possible Reasons for Spinal Fusion Surgery
Conditions which might cause the need for a spinal fusion procedure are:
- Herniated or Bulging Disc (particularly recurrent)
- Spondylolisthesis or Spine Instability
- “Bone on Bone” Disc Injury or Degeneration
- Fractured Vertebrae
- Osteoarthritis
- Spondylosis
What to Expect with Spinal Fusion
Spine fusion is a major surgical procedure that is performed under general anesthetics. Recovery in the hospital could take several days and getting back to your normal routines could take, depending on many factors, anywhere from weeks to several months. You might require some form of physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility. If your spine injury requires a spinal fusion, you can rest assured that Dr. Marks and his medical team have the expertise to successfully perform this surgery.
Alternative to Spinal Fusion Surgery
Dr. Marks has pioneered one of the most exciting surgery alternatives to a spinal fusion. The procedure is called Transcutaneous Lumbar Disc Resection (TDR). This average one hour minimally invasive procedure is done on an outpatient basis usually requiring only a one to two hour recovery room stay post operative. Recovery time can be measure in days rather than months. Not everyone is a candidate for this alternative to a complex spine fusion. A thorough examination by Dr. Marks is required to determine if you are a candidate.
Whether you are in need of an evaluation for spine pain or for knee pain, Dr. Marks can provide complete medical care for your injury.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Richard Marks is seeing patients considering spinal fusion surgery. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at 972-231-7100. You may also use our online contact form.
