Expert Spinal Fusion Surgery at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics
Dr. Arutyunyan, a distinguished orthopedic spine surgeon at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics in Manhattan, specializes in spinal fusion surgery, a common procedure aimed at providing stability and relief from chronic back pain. With a focus on patient-centered care and shared decision-making, Dr. Arutyunyan ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique condition.
Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery involves using specialized instrumentation to perform a bone graft, allowing the spinal bones to heal together and become stable. It is typically recommended when conservative treatment methods have failed to alleviate persistent back pain or address conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or spinal fractures.
Determining the Need for Surgery
Before recommending spinal fusion surgery, Dr. Arutyunyan conducts a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests. Factors such as the severity of pain, underlying spinal conditions, and the patient’s overall health are carefully considered to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
Reasons for Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery may be recommended for various reasons, including persistent back pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, spinal deformities, failed previous surgeries, spinal fractures, or instability caused by trauma, infections, or tumors. Each patient’s unique circumstances are taken into account when deciding whether surgery is necessary.
Types of Spinal Fusion Techniques
There are different approaches to spinal fusion surgery, including posterior, anterior, or lateral approaches, depending on the patient’s condition and anatomy. Dr. Arutyunyan discusses the various options with the patient to determine the most suitable approach for their specific case, considering factors such as MRI findings, age, sex, and overall health.
The Surgical Procedure
During spinal fusion surgery, Dr. Arutyunyan makes an incision either directly over the spine, on the side, or in the abdomen, depending on the chosen approach. A bone graft, either from the patient’s own body or a bone bank, is placed between the vertebrae to promote fusion. Metal screws, rods, or cages are then inserted to stabilize the vertebrae while the bone graft heals.
Comprehensive Care and Support
At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, our philosophy revolves around providing highly personalized and comprehensive care to our patients. Dr. Arutyunyan ensures that patients are fully informed about their condition, treatment options, and what to expect during and after surgery. Shared decision-making between the patient and the medical team is paramount to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may require surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the treatment process and helping you achieve a successful recovery. Contact us today to take the first step toward a pain-free life.