What is Spine Surgery?
Spine surgery is a medical procedure performed to correct problems in the spinal column. These problems may include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, or vertebral fractures. Back and spine issues can significantly affect the quality of life, especially for those between 18 and 50 who are active and digitally engaged. The goal of spine surgery treatment is to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, stabilize the spine, and restore normal function.
With advances in technology, modern back surgery options are far less invasive and more precise. This ensures reduced hospital stays, minimal scars, and quicker returns to daily life, especially important for the digitally active generation. Artemis Hospital provides advanced diagnostic and surgical care for all types of back and spine surgery needs.
What are the Different Types of Spine Surgeries?
There are various spine surgery procedures, each targeting specific spinal conditions. Some of the common types include:
Lumbar spine surgery focuses on the lower back. It's commonly used for disc herniation, lumbar stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. These surgeries relieve nerve pressure and stabilize the lower spine.
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive spine surgery technique using small incisions and a camera. It's ideal for patients with disc problems or spinal stenosis and offers a faster spine surgery recovery.
This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae to eliminate motion that may be causing pain. It's commonly used for degenerative disc disease or instability.
In a discectomy, a herniated or damaged disc is removed to relieve nerve compression. It’s often done using minimally invasive methods.
A laminectomy removes part of the vertebral bone (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, often required in severe stenosis cases.
When Should I Consult the Doctor for Spine Surgery?
Get in touch with the spine specialists if you are experiencing persistent back pain that doesn’t improve with medication or physical therapy. Additional warning signs include:
Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Severe pain following an accident or injury
If conservative treatments fail, the doctor may recommend back pain surgery or another form of spine surgery treatment.
Book an appointment with our expert spine specialist in Gurgaon.
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How Can I Prepare for Spine Surgery?
Preparation plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth spine surgery procedure and quick spine surgery recovery. Here is how you can prepare for your spine surgery:
A thorough check-up, including MRI, CT scan, and blood work is recommended by the doctor to make the best comprehensive treatment plan.
Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you’re taking before the surgery.
Stop smoking, limit alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight to enhance healing.
Post-surgery help at home is essential. Let someone drive you to the hospital and back home after the surgery.
You may need to fast 8–12 hours before surgery depending on the anesthesia.
How is Spine Surgery Performed?
Spine surgery is performed using either traditional open techniques or modern minimally invasive spine surgery methods, depending on the patient's condition, the type of spinal problem, and the surgeon's recommendation. The goal is to relieve pressure on nerves, stabilize the spine, or correct deformities.
Anesthesia and Positioning
The procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure you're unconscious and pain-free throughout the surgery. Once you're asleep, you’re positioned face down or on your side—this allows optimal access to the spine.
Incision and Exposure
A longer incision is made over the affected spinal area, and muscles are retracted to expose the vertebrae.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
A small incision (about 1–2 cm) is made. A tubular retractor or endoscope is inserted to access the spine with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Surgical Correction
Depending on the diagnosis, the surgeon may perform one or more of the following:
Removal of a herniated or damaged disc pressing on nerves.
Removal of part of the vertebra (lamina) to enlarge the spinal canal and relieve nerve pressure.
Fusion of two or more vertebrae using bone grafts, rods, or screws to stabilize the spine.
A fiber-optic camera guides tools to repair the spine through tiny incisions.
Removal of bone or tissue compressing nerves.
Closure and Dressing
After the correction is completed:
Bleeding is controlled and the surgical site is cleaned.
The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples.
A sterile dressing is applied to protect the area.
Surgeons at Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon use the latest equipment and techniques to perform both back and spine surgery and endoscopic spine surgery with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery outcomes.
What to Expect After Spine Surgery?
After the spine surgery the patient is moved to a recovery room where the vital signs, neurological function, and pain levels are carefully monitored. For minimally invasive spine surgery, the hospital stay may be just 1–2 days, whereas open surgery might require a 3–5 day stay. The medical team will ensure you are stable, check for complications like bleeding or infection, and assess your ability to move and perform basic functions safely.
Managing pain is a key focus in the early days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medications, which may include opioids, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatories, depending on the intensity of your discomfort. Many patients who undergo minimally invasive spine surgery report significantly less pain compared to traditional procedures. Over time, you’ll transition to milder pain relief and focus on natural methods like heat therapy, stretching, and physical therapy.
Initial Mobility and Walking
Contrary to common belief, bed rest is not encouraged for long periods after back pain surgery. In most cases, patients are encouraged to start walking within 24 hours to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Early movement, under guidance, also supports spinal alignment and speeds up healing. A physiotherapist will assist you in learning how to get in and out of bed, sit, and walk without straining the spine.
Proper care of your surgical incision is critical to avoid infections. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on how to keep the site clean and dry. You’ll likely be advised to avoid bathing or submerging the wound for the first 1–2 weeks. For endoscopic spine surgery, the incisions are small and generally heal faster, with fewer dressing changes and minimal scarring.
After spine surgery, there will be several physical restrictions to help protect your healing spine. These usually include avoiding heavy lifting, bending, twisting, and high-impact activities for several weeks. Adhering to these limitations is essential to prevent injury or complications such as hardware displacement or delayed healing.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of a successful spine surgery recovery. Most patients begin therapy shortly after discharge to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. A customized rehabilitation plan will guide you through gentle exercises that gradually increase in intensity. Physical therapy can also address posture correction, improve balance, and reduce the risk of future back problems.
Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are crucial for monitoring recovery progress. During these check-ups, your doctor will assess your healing through physical exams and imaging (X-rays or MRIs), make adjustments to your treatment plan, and address any concerns. These appointments help ensure your recovery stays on track and complications are identified early.
Emotional and Mental Adjustment
It’s important to understand that recovery from back and spine surgery isn’t just physical—it also involves emotional adjustment. Temporary limitations, pain, or slow progress can sometimes lead to frustration or anxiety. Having a positive support system, realistic expectations, and open communication with your spine specialist can ease this transition and improve your overall recovery experience.
Returning to Daily Activities
Most patients can resume their daily activities depending on the type of surgery and your general health. For minimally invasive spine surgery, many patients return to light work within 2–4 weeks. More intensive procedures, such as spinal fusion, may require up to 3 months before a full return to daily routines. Always follow your surgeon’s advice when considering physical exertion or returning to work. Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, especially with minimally invasive spine surgery techniques.
What are the Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has transformed the way spinal problems are treated, offering numerous benefits over traditional open surgery. This procedure leverages small incisions, specialized instruments, and advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive spine surgery allows surgeons to target specific areas of the spine with precision, leading to less trauma, faster recovery, and improved outcomes for patients.
Therefore, this technique has become increasingly popular for treating conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease, especially for patients who value a quicker return to their daily activities.
Smaller Incisions and Less Tissue Disruption
One of the most significant benefits of minimally invasive spine surgery is the use of much smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery. These smaller cuts not only reduce the amount of tissue that needs to be disrupted during the procedure but also help minimize scarring. The reduced incision size leads to less trauma for the body, making the overall surgery less invasive and improving the chances of a quicker recovery.
Reduced Pain and Discomfort
Because minimally invasive spine surgery involves smaller incisions and less disruption to the surrounding muscles and tissues, most patients experience less post-surgery pain compared to those who undergo traditional open spine surgery. This translates to a more comfortable recovery process with less reliance on pain medications, allowing patients to resume normal activities more quickly and with fewer side effects from pain management.
Since minimally invasive spine surgery involves much smaller incisions, the resulting scars are significantly smaller and less noticeable than those from traditional open surgeries. For many patients, especially those concerned with aesthetics or who prefer discreet healing, this is a major advantage, as the minimal scarring enhances the satisfaction with the surgical results.
Minimally invasive spine surgery offers reduced blood loss during the procedure. With smaller incisions and less trauma to the surrounding tissues, blood vessels are less likely to be disrupted, resulting in significantly less bleeding. This not only reduces the need for blood transfusions but also contributes to a safer and faster recovery process.
Quicker Recovery and Shorter Hospital Stays
Another major advantage of minimally invasive spine surgery is the significantly reduced recovery time. Due to the minimal disruption to the body, patients typically experience faster healing and can often return home the same day or the following day after the surgery. Hospital stays are shorter, and recovery time is reduced to a few weeks instead of the several months typically required after traditional open surgery. This is especially beneficial for younger, digital-savvy patients who wish to return to their professional or personal activities quickly.
Smaller incisions mean that there is a lower risk of infection compared to traditional open spine surgery. With less exposure of internal tissues to the external environment, the chances of harmful bacteria entering the surgical site are minimized. This makes minimally invasive spine surgery a safer option for many patients, especially those who may be concerned about complications like infections, which can extend recovery times or require additional treatments.
Improved Precision With High Success Rate
Minimally invasive spine surgery often utilizes advanced imaging technology, such as fluoroscopy or intraoperative CT scans, which allows surgeons to work with greater accuracy. These imaging techniques help guide the surgeon in real-time, ensuring that only the targeted areas of the spine are addressed. This precision reduces the risk of complications, ensures better alignment, and often results in improved long-term outcomes for the patient.
Open Spine Surgery vs. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
| | Open Spine Surgery | Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) |
Incision Size | Large (typically 5–6 inches) | Small (typically 1–2 cm) |
Tissue Disruption | Significant muscle cutting and retraction | Minimal tissue and muscle disruption |
Hospital Stay | 3–5 days | 1–2 days (sometimes same-day discharge) |
Recovery Time | 6–12 weeks or more | 2–6 weeks (faster return to normal activity) |
Scarring | More noticeable scars | Almost invisible scars |
Postoperative Pain | Moderate to high | Low to moderate |
Infection Risk | Slightly higher due to larger exposure | Negligible, due to smaller wounds |
Use of Technology | May not use advanced visualization tools | Uses real-time imaging, endoscopes, and fluoroscopy |
Suitability | Complex or multi-level spinal problems | Ideal for herniated discs, stenosis, and minor fusions |
Possible Risks Associated with Spine Surgery
Although generally safe, all surgeries carry some risks. These may include:
Get advanced spine surgery in Gurgaon for precise treatment, improved outcomes, and expert spine care.
What are the Recovery Tips After Spine Surgery?
Recovering from spine surgery—whether it's endoscopic spine surgery, lumbar spine surgery, or spinal fusion—requires a combination of rest, movement, and discipline. While your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide you through a structured plan, following these essential spine surgery recovery tips can significantly speed up healing, reduce complications, and help you regain function and comfort more quickly.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions Diligently
The surgeon provides a recovery guide tailored to your procedure. These instructions will include wound care, medication schedules, physical restrictions, and warning signs to watch for. Adhering strictly to these guidelines reduces the risk of infection, re-injury, or delayed healing.
Take Pain Medications as Prescribed
Effective pain control is vital for early recovery. Don’t wait until pain becomes unbearable—take medications as prescribed to stay ahead of discomfort. If you're concerned about side effects or dependency, discuss alternate pain management options like nerve blocks or natural anti-inflammatories with your doctor.
Limit Bending, Lifting, and Twisting (BLT)
Avoid the “BLT” movements—bending, lifting, and twisting—especially in the first few weeks. These motions can place stress on the healing spine and disrupt surgical implants or grafts. Use assistive tools like reachers or grabbers, and always ask for help when lifting items.
Start Walking Early and Often
Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises after back surgery. It promotes blood circulation, prevents blood clots, strengthens the core, and supports the healing process. Begin with short, frequent walks around your home and gradually increase distance with your physiotherapist’s guidance.
Sleep in a Spine-Friendly Position
The sleeping position can affect healing and comfort. Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees, or on your side with a pillow between your knees to keep your spine aligned. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, which puts pressure on the lower back.
Attend All Physical Therapy Sessions
Spine surgery recovery is incomplete without physical therapy. These sessions are designed to restore flexibility, muscle strength, posture, and coordination. Your therapist will tailor exercises to your condition and surgery type, ensuring you progress at the right pace without overexerting.
Eat Nutritiously and Stay Hydrated
Good nutrition supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and boosts energy. Focus on a balanced diet rich in lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Stay well-hydrated to aid circulation and reduce post-surgery fatigue.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking impairs blood flow and slows bone healing, increasing the risk of complications, especially after lumbar spine surgery or spinal fusion. Alcohol can interfere with medications and delay recovery. It's best to eliminate or significantly reduce both during the healing period.
Contact Artemis Hospital for Effective Spine Surgery in Gurgaon
Artemis Hospital combines expert medical knowledge with cutting-edge technology to provide advanced spine surgery treatment in Gurgaon. Our team of experienced spine surgeons specializes in endoscopic, lumbar, and minimally invasive spine surgery, ensuring optimal outcomes with minimal discomfort. We offer:
Personalized treatment plans
Transparent spine surgery cost options
Comprehensive pre- and post-surgery care
Quick appointment scheduling and online consultations
To book an appointment with some of the best spine specialists in Gurgaon at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 959-928-5476. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or by downloading the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Dheeraj Batheja
Consultant - Orthopaedic Surgery & Spine Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spine surgery the only option for back pain?
No, surgery is recommended only when conservative treatments fail.
Is spine surgery painful?
Anesthesia is used during the procedure, and post-surgical pain is managed with medication.
Can I walk after spine surgery?
Yes, in most cases, patients are encouraged to walk within 24 hours post-op.
What is the recovery time for lumbar spine surgery?
Recovery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, but full activity may resume in 3 months.
Are all spine surgeries invasive?
No, options like endoscopic spine surgery are minimally invasive with faster recovery.
Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
Yes, physical therapy is a critical part of the healing process.
Who is the best spine specialist near me for spine surgery in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best spine specialists in Gurgaon who offer advanced spine surgery in Gurgaon with a high success rate. To know more, get in touch with us.
Can spine surgery correct posture issues?
Yes, certain surgeries can help improve posture, especially in cases of scoliosis or deformity.
Is it safe to have spine surgery at age 30 or younger?
Yes, age is not a barrier if the condition requires it and general health is good.
