Complex Spine Surgery

What is Complex Spine Surgery?

Complex spine surgery is a procedure that involves six or more vertebrae of the spinal column. Complex spine surgery is very difficult to perform and demands the highest level of patient dedication to be successful.

Anatomy of the Spine

The spine consists of 33 vertebral bones stacked one on top of the other with cushioning discs lying between each vertebra. It is divided into 7 cervical vertebrae (neck), 12 thoracic vertebrae (mid back), 5 lumbar vertebrae (lower back), 5 sacral bones, and 4 coccyx bones. The sacral and the coccyx bones are fused and do not provide any movement in the spine. The spine plays a key role in the smooth movement, stability, and protection of the delicate spinal cord, and giving symmetry and support to the body.

Indications for Complex Spine Surgery

People requiring complex spine surgery usually have serious spinal deformities, major curvatures, severe spinal trauma, spinal tumors, or previous spine surgery

Preparation for Complex Spine Surgery

A preoperative assessment will be made before complex spine surgery to check your overall health and to ascertain your preparedness for the surgery. Dr Park will explain the pros and cons of the procedure in detail. Make sure to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you may be taking, especially medications that can thin your blood such as aspirin. Your doctor may recommend stopping these medications temporarily before your surgery. Advise your doctor about any allergies to medications or latex. If you are a smoker, inform your doctor, as nicotine prevents bone fusion needed for long-term spinal stability. Your doctor may provide you with options to help you quit.

Postoperative Care and Instructions

Post-surgery - you will be transferred to the recovery area for close observation and care. You will be connected to various equipment, such as a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen level, IVs for fluids and medications, and compression stockings on your legs to prevent blood clots. You will experience significant pain and will be provided with pain medications, muscle relaxants, and ice packs to keep you comfortable. You are encouraged to participate in activities such as sitting in a chair, standing and walking, to aid in mobility and prevent stiffness. You may be advised to protect your back from excessive bending and twisting movements and to allow healing of the spine. A customized physical therapy program will be designed as part of your recovery plan.

Risks and Complications of Complex Spine Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, complex spine surgery involves potential risks and complications that include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to nerves and arteries
• Persistent pain
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE)
• Spinal cord injury
• Hardware fracture
• Implant migration