Neurosurgery is a medical field that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the nervous system, including the brain and spine. It can be a critical step for individuals suffering from chronic pain, neurological disorders, or injuries that affect their quality of life. Dr. Chris Michael at Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery is experienced in various neurosurgical procedures, offering personalized care for patients dealing with complex spine and nerve issues.
What is Neurosurgery?
Neurosurgery involves surgical procedures that address conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system. The goal is to relieve symptoms, improve function, and prevent further damage. While many patients initially seek non-invasive treatments, surgery may be required for certain conditions that do not improve with conservative methods.
When to Consider Neurosurgery
Patients may consider neurosurgery when conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections fail to provide relief. Signs that surgery might be necessary include severe pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of function in the arms or legs. If these symptoms affect daily activities and other treatments have not worked, surgery may be the next option.
Dr. Michael takes a conservative approach initially, offering treatments like conservative spine therapy to help manage pain. Surgery is typically recommended only when these treatments no longer provide relief.
Types of Neurosurgical Procedures
Dr. Michael performs a variety of spinal surgeries, many of which can be done using minimally invasive techniques. These include:
- Microdiscectomy: A procedure that removes a portion of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve.
- Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement: A procedure replacing a damaged disc in the neck with an artificial one.
- Microlaminectomy/Microforaminotomy: These surgeries address nerve compression by removing bone spurs or damaged tissue in the spine.
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): A procedure that stabilizes the spine after disc degeneration or injury.
- Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF): A technique used to treat severe lumbar conditions by removing damaged discs and fusing the spine.
Dr. Michael focuses on minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, which results in smaller incisions, less pain, and a quicker recovery.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Before undergoing surgery, patients will meet with Dr. Michael for a comprehensive consultation. During this visit, Dr. Michael will review the patient’s medical history, conduct physical exams, and order imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to get a detailed view of the condition. Based on the findings, a personalized treatment plan will be developed, and Dr. Michael will explain the different surgical options available.
Following surgery, patients are carefully monitored as they recover. Post-operative care includes pain management, physical therapy, and follow-up visits to track progress. Recovery times vary depending on the procedure, but minimally invasive techniques often lead to faster healing, reduced risk of complications, and a quicker return to normal activities.
Why Choose Dr. Chris Michael and Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery?
Dr. Chris Michael’s expertise in neurosurgery and his commitment to providing patient-centered care make him a trusted choice for those considering surgery for spinal or neurological conditions.
If you are dealing with chronic back pain, neck pain, or other neurological symptoms, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Michael could be the first step to regaining your quality of life. With his experience in a wide range of procedures, including minimally invasive spine surgeries and advanced treatments, Dr. Michael offers solutions specific to your needs.
Take the first step to relief by reaching out to Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery today.
Sources:
OHSU
