To say spine surgery has come a long way throughout the years is an understatement. In the past when you thought of spine surgery, you may have thought of a major procedure, with lots of risks, and a long hospital stay. A lot has changed since then! In fact, did you know there is a growing number of outpatient spine procedures?
Is Out-Patient Spine Surgery Right for You?
Yes, you heard that right! Certain spine surgeries are being performed in an outpatient setting where the patient comes to a surgery center in the morning and returns home by the afternoon. These procedures are performed by both of Coastal Orthopedics Spine Specialist Dr. Eric Sundberg.
We recently caught up with Dr. Eric Sundberg, who gave us insight on several common back issues, steps he likes to take before resorting to surgery, and what patients are candidates to undergo surgery in an out-patient setting.
What is the Most Common Issue Dr. Sundberg See Among His Patients?
Dr. Sundberg told us the most common issue he sees patients coming in with is Lumbar Stenosis. Lumbar Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back and results in pain, numbness, and/or weakness in the legs, feet, and buttocks. However, before resorting surgery, Dr. Sundberg gives several non-surgical treatments a chance. These treatments include physical therapy, yoga, pilates, non-narcotic medications, and injections. Unfortunately, these treatments don’t always give patients relief and that is when surgery comes into play, more specifically a Lumbar Laminectomy.
What is Lumbar Laminectomy?
A Lumbar Laminectomy procedure is designed to give the nerve root more space and a better environment to heal. One of the most exciting aspects of the Lumbar Laminectomy is it can be performed in an out-patient setting! Unfortunately, not all patients are good candidates for this procedure as an out-patient. According to Dr. Sundberg factors include age, comorbidities, and the overall complexity of the surgery specific to the patient. While out-patient surgery is not right for every patient, Dr. Sundberg says those who are, find themselves recovering faster and returning to normal activities earlier!
