Spondylolisthesis Surgery in Delhi

October 1, 2024

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one of the vertebrae in the spine slips out of place onto the vertebra below it. This misalignment can cause significant pain and discomfort, leading to nerve compression and mobility issues. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may become necessary. At Axis Clinic in Delhi, we specialize in advanced spondylolisthesis surgery in Delhi, offering comprehensive care to restore your spinal health and improve your quality of life.

Table Of Content

• Indications for Spondylolisthesis Surgery in Delhi
• Diagnosis for Spondylolisthesis Surgery
• Treatment Options
• How to Prepare for Surgery?
• Step-by-Step Procedure of Surgery
• Risks Involved
• Recovery Timeline
• Summary

Indications for Spondylolisthesis Surgery in Delhi

Spondylolisthesis surgery is typically recommended when:

• Severe Pain: Persistent back and leg pain that does not respond to non-surgical treatments.
• Neurological Symptoms: Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
• Spinal Instability: Significant slippage of the vertebra that compromises spinal stability.
• Decreased Mobility: Impaired ability to walk or perform daily activities due to pain and instability.
• Failed Conservative Treatments: Ineffectiveness of treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections.

Diagnosis for Spondylolisthesis Surgery

The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will review your symptoms and perform a physical exam to assess your spinal alignment and neurological function.
• X-rays: These are used to visualize the alignment of the vertebrae and the degree of slippage.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI provides detailed images of the spinal cord, nerves, and soft tissues, helping to identify nerve compression.
• CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: A CT scan offers detailed images of the bones and can help in planning the surgical approach.

Treatment Options

Treatment for spondylolisthesis at Axis Clinic includes both non-surgical and surgical options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility.
• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants to manage pain and inflammation.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain around the affected nerves.
• Bracing: Wearing a brace to support the spine and limit movement, allowing the vertebra to heal.

Surgical Treatments

When non-surgical treatments fail, surgery becomes necessary. The surgical options include:

• Spinal Fusion: This procedure involves fusing the slipped vertebra to the adjacent vertebrae using bone grafts and metal hardware to stabilize the spine.
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
• Discectomy: Removal of the damaged disc that is causing nerve compression.

How to Prepare for Surgery?

Preparation for spondylolisthesis surgery involves several steps to ensure a successful outcome:

• Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive evaluation including blood tests, imaging studies, and cardiac assessments to ensure you are fit for surgery.
• Medications: Discuss with your doctor any medications you are taking, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped before surgery.
• Pre-Surgical Instructions: Follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon, such as fasting before surgery and arranging for post-operative care.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: If you smoke, quit smoking to improve healing. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active within your limits can also be beneficial.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Surgery

The surgical procedure for spondylolisthesis at Axis Clinic is performed by skilled surgeons using state-of-the-art techniques:

1. Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the back to access the spine.
3. Exposure: The muscles and tissues are gently moved aside to expose the affected vertebra.
4. Decompression: If necessary, parts of the vertebra or disc are removed to relieve pressure on the nerves.
5. Fusion: Bone grafts and metal hardware are used to stabilize the spine and fuse the vertebrae together.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Risks Involved

As with any surgery, spondylolisthesis surgery carries certain risks, including:

• Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding: Blood loss during surgery.
• Nerve Damage: Potential damage to the nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Blood Clots: Risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs.
• Hardware Complications: Issues with the metal hardware used in spinal fusion, such as breakage or misplacement.
• Nonunion: Failure of the bones to fuse properly, requiring additional surgery.

Recovery Timeline

The recovery timeline for spondylolisthesis surgery varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed:

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 2-4 days after surgery.
• Initial Recovery: The first few weeks involve limited activity and wearing a brace to support the spine.
• Physical Therapy: Starting a physical therapy program to strengthen the back muscles and improve mobility.
• Return to Activities: Gradual return to normal activities over the next 3-6 months, with full recovery taking up to a year.

Post-Care Tips

Post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery:

• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
• Medications: Take prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.
• Physical Therapy: Participate in physical therapy exercises to regain strength and flexibility.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, twisting, and bending until cleared by your doctor.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking to promote healing.

Summary

Spondylolisthesis surgery can significantly improve quality of life for those suffering from severe pain and neurological symptoms due to vertebral slippage. At Axis Clinic in Delhi, we provide expert surgical care tailored to each patient’s needs. Our comprehensive approach includes thorough diagnosis, a range of treatment options, and detailed post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes. Trust Axis Clinic and our team of skilled surgeons to guide you through your treatment journey, from diagnosis to recovery.

Choosing Axis Clinic means opting for excellence in spinal care. Whether you are dealing with persistent back pain, neurological symptoms, or mobility issues due to spondylolisthesis, we are here to help. Our commitment to patient-centered care ensures that you receive the best treatment tailored to your unique needs. Contact Axis Clinic today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life.