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Treatment Options for Complex Spinal Disorders in NYC

Complex spinal disorders are just that—complex. They consist of conditions involving instability of the spine, both with and without compression of the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots. Spinal disorders may also include instability due to fractures, tumors, infection, scoliosis or spondylolisthesis.

 

What are complex spinal disorders?

The spine—what most people refer to as their backbone—is made up of twenty-six individual discs of bone called vertebrae. In a healthy spine, these bony discs fit together smoothly like interlocking puzzle pieces. However, a number of different problems can damage the vertebrae or the surrounding tissues and change the structure of the spine.

This type of damage can occur due to:

  • Infections
  • Injuries
  • Tumors
  • Other spinal conditions, such as scoliosis
  • Age-related changes in the spine, such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs

When spinal disease includes bone changes that put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, it can cause significant pain.

 

What are the symptoms of complex spinal disorders?

Because of the way the spinal cord is structured and how it functions, damage to the spine often produces specific patterns of symptoms based on where the damage has occurred.

Some of these symptoms may include:

  • Back pain
  • Weakness
  • Loss of feeling, which may include an inability to feel pain, temperature, or touch; in some cases, this may include a loss in the ability to sense where the limbs are
  • Changes in reflexes
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Erectile dysfunction

Symptoms involving a loss of normal function may be total or only partial. By identifying which functions are lost, Dr. Matusz can pinpoint which part of the spinal cord is damaged and determine the best treatment options for your needs.

 

What are the treatment options for complex spinal disorders?

Today, complex spine surgery may be used to treat many types of spinal disease and spine conditions including spinal tumors, infections, spine fractures and instabilities. Surgical treatment for these conditions often includes advanced procedures, such as stabilization with surgical hardware like plates and rods or pedicle screws. Titanium devices are sometimes used and bone grafts may be necessary in some cases.

For true stabilization, patients often require surgical fusion of the spine. Spinal fusion is an operation that creates a solid connection between two or more vertebrae, stopping them from moving separately. This procedure may assist in strengthening and stabilizing the spine by reducing the amount of motion in the bones. When performed by a skilled and experienced spine surgeon, it can help alleviate severe neck or back pain and prevent future spinal cord or nerve injuries.

 

Where can I find a spine specialist for my complex spinal disorder in NYC?

At NY Orthopedics, we offer a wide range of treatment options for complex spinal disorders. Our team of doctors provides compassionate care and technical expertise for patients of all ages.

If you are suffering from a complex spinal disorder and interested in learning more about your treatment options, schedule a consultation  today.

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