Outpatient Spine Surgery

Types of procedures, Ideal candidates, Advantages, and Recovery

Are you or a loved one experiencing spine-related issues that may require surgery? OrthoNeuro offers a wide range of specialized services, including outpatient spine surgery. This innovative approach allows patients to undergo spine procedures in an outpatient setting, providing numerous benefits such as minimized recovery time and reduced costs.

In this article, we will explore the concept of outpatient spine surgery, the types of procedures performed, the ideal candidates, the advantages it offers, and the recovery process.

If you’re considering treatment for your spine, contact OrthoNeuro—a leading surgical practice with multiple locations in Columbus, OH. Schedule a consultation with our experienced orthopedic surgeons today!

What is Outpatient Spine Surgery?

Outpatient spine surgery (also known as ambulatory or same-day spine surgery) involves performing surgical procedures on the spine in an outpatient setting, where patients can return home on the same day.

This approach has gained popularity over the past decade due to advancements in minimally invasive techniques, allowing for faster recovery and improved patient outcomes.

Types of Procedures Considered as Outpatient Spine Surgery

Several spine surgery procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, depending on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s recommendation. Some common types of outpatient surgeries include:

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): This minimally invasive procedure treats conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis in the neck. It involves removing the damaged disc and fusing adjacent vertebrae to stabilize the spine.
Lumbar Discectomy: This procedure is performed to alleviate symptoms caused by a herniated disc in the lower back. A small incision is made, and the surgeon removes the portion of the disc that is compressing the nerve, relieving pain and restoring function.
Lumbar Laminectomy: Also known as decompression surgery, this procedure is used to treat spinal stenosis, a condition that narrows the spinal canal and puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. By removing the lamina, the surgeon creates more space for the nerves, reducing pain and improving mobility.
Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Surgery: This technique is employed to stabilize the spine and promote fusion between two or more vertebrae. It can be used to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis. Minimally invasive fusion surgery involves smaller incisions and specialized instruments, resulting in reduced soft tissue damage and faster recovery.

Candidates for Outpatient Spine Surgery

Outpatient surgery is suitable for many individuals requiring surgical intervention for spine-related conditions, such as degenerative cervical spine disease.

The ideal candidates typically include:

Patients with specific spinal conditions that can be effectively addressed through minimally invasive procedures.
Individuals who are in good overall health, without significant medical conditions that would increase the risk of complications.
Those with a body mass index (BMI) within a normal range, as excessive weight can increase the surgical risks.
Patients who are committed to following post-operative instructions, including physical therapy and rehabilitation programs.

It is essential to consult with an experienced orthopedic surgeon to determine if outpatient spine surgery is the right option for your specific case.

Benefits of Outpatient Spine Surgery

Opting for outpatient spinal surgery offers several advantages for patients, including the following:

Quicker Recovery: Since outpatient spine surgeries involve minimally invasive techniques, they generally result in shorter recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries. Patients can return to their daily activities and routines sooner, reducing the overall disruption caused by the procedure.
Decreased Cost: Outpatient spine surgeries are typically more cost-effective compared to inpatient hospital stays. As they are performed in ambulatory surgery centers, the expenses related to an overnight hospital stay are eliminated, resulting in potential cost savings.
Minimized Pain and Discomfort: Minimally invasive spine surgery is designed to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues, resulting in less pain and discomfort during and after surgery. This allows patients to rely less on pain medication and experience a smoother recovery.
Lower Risk of Complications: Outpatient spine surgery has a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgeries. The smaller incisions used in minimally invasive surgical techniques lead to reduced blood loss, decreased chances of infection, and faster healing.

Recovery After Outpatient Spine Surgery

The recovery process following outpatient spine surgery varies depending on the procedure performed and the patient’s individual circumstances.

However, there are general guidelines to follow:

Strictly adhere to the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, including limitations on physical activities and recommendations for pain management.
Participate in physical therapy and rehabilitation programs as directed to regain strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, as these factors can influence the healing process.
Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise.

Remember, each patient’s recovery journey is unique. By closely following the guidance of your healthcare team, you can maximize your chances of a successful recovery and return to an active, pain-free life.

Book Your Outpatient Spinal Surgery Consultation Today

Outpatient surgical treatment offers a convenient and effective treatment option for individuals requiring surgical intervention for spine-related conditions. With its numerous benefits, including faster recovery, decreased costs, and minimized pain, outpatient spine surgery has transformed the way spinal procedures are performed.

If you’re considering spine surgery, contact us at OrthoNeuro today! We have multiple outpatient surgery centers in Columbus, OH. Schedule your appointment to learn more about our spine services.

Medically reviewed by Larry T. Todd, D.O.

Spine Care Specialists

IF YOU LIVE WITH CHRONIC BACK OR NECK PAIN, CONTACT ORTHONEURO IN COLUMBUS, OHIO, FOR STATE-OF-THE-ART DIAGNOSIS AND PERSONALIZED SPINE CARE TREATMENT PLANS TO HEAL YOUR SPINE, RELIEVE YOUR PAIN, AND HELP YOU GET BACK TO YOUR REGULAR ACTIVITIES.

Ying H. Chen, DO, FACOS

Neurosurgeon

Paul H. Eichenseer, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Ranjit Ganguly, MD

Neurosurgeon

David K. Kim, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Daniel P. Pap, MD

Interventional Pain Management Specialist

Dustin Reynolds, MD

Interventional Pain Management Specialist

Donald J. Rohl, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Siddharth Shetgeri, DO

Neurosurgeon

Larry T. Todd, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Mark A. White, DO, FACOS

Neurosurgeon

“I recently had surgery on my lower back. I had heard that such surgery would result in pain and cause me difficulties in doing ordinary daily tasks but, I experienced no pain and was able to do normal activities at home and at church. Also, being a bee keeper, I was able to work the hives and extract the honey from most of the hives”

James B.

Patient

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