Spinal surgery
The spinal surgery department deals with injuries and diseases of the spine and spinal cord. It is the interface between various disciplines, such as orthopaedics and neurosurgery. The spinal surgery department covers both conservative and surgical treatments.
The spine can become damaged by inflammatory diseases such as rheumatism or tumours. Degenerative processes such as osteoarthritis in the vertebral joints also lead to back pain. In old age, further complaints such as osteoporosis (bone loss) with spontaneous vertebral fractures, deterioration of the intervertebral disc, or curvature of the spine (kyphosis/scoliosis) may appear.
Most common injuries and illnesses
Further information on diagnosis, therapy and treatment options
Treatments
In our clinics, we offer you a wide range of therapy and treatment options, from conservative, pain-relieving therapies to surgical interventions.
Conservative therapies
- Neurostimulation
- Infiltrations with painkillers and/or cortisone
- Physiotherapy
- Infrared and heat therapy
- Massage
- Muscle-building or medical training therapy
Surgical therapies
- Intervertebral disc surgery
- Vertebral fracture surgery
- Kyphoplasty/Vertebroplasty (cementing techniques)
- Endoscopic spinal surgery
- Stabilisation using screw and rod systems
- Use of implants to stabilise the injury
- Expansion of the narrow spinal canal / nerve decompression
Sections of the spine
FAQs
Is back surgery dangerous?
This cannot be answered in general terms: it depends on the type of surgery performed and the reason for the surgery. Surgery near the spinal cord always carries a certain risk. Therefore, establishing the right indications, considering all the factors, and choosing an experienced surgeon are very important. After all, complications such as pain, infection or nerve damage can occur with any operation. Doctors will provide you with detailed information about each specific complication and how it might be prevented or resolved.
How long do you have to stay off work after spinal surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery and the reason for it. The type of work you do also plays a role. Depending on the procedure, you may not be able to return to work for up to eight weeks for light work and up to six months for heavy physical work. In certain cases, unfortunately, it may be retrain for a different role, as the strain on the back has to be permanently reduced.