Description
A cervical disc herniation occurs when a disc in the neck bulges or ruptures, leading to compression of nearby nerves or, in some cases, the spinal cord.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and confirmed with MRI imaging of the cervical spine and Electromyography that analyses the electric transmition of the nerves.
Conservative treatment
Injection therapy
Targeted cervical injections may be considered in selected cases to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative treatment or when neurological deficits appear.
The goal is to relieve nerve or spinal cord compression using a targeted and, when possible, minimally invasive approach. Multiple approaches from the front or back and different techniaues like arthrodesis usingna cage or a disc replacement surgery are possible.
Recovery & prognosis
Most patients experience significant symptom improvement and return to daily activities following appropriate treatment.
Description
Degenerative changes of the cervical spine result from progressive wear of the discs and joints in the neck. These changes are common with aging but may become symptomatic.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Clinical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI.
Conservative treatment
Injection therapy
Facet joint or nerve-related injections may be proposed in selected cases.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is rarely required and reserved for cases with persistent pain or neurological involvement.
Recovery & prognosis
Most patients improve with conservative management. Surgical treatment, when indicated, generally provides good outcomes.
Description
A lumbar disc herniation occurs when a disc in the lower back protrudes and compresses a nerve root, often causing sciatica.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment and confirmed by MRI of the lumbar spine and Electromyography.
Conservative treatment
Injection therapy
Epidural or nerve root injections may be offered to reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment or when neurological deficits develop.
The procedure aims to relieve nerve compression, most often through minimally invasive or endoscopic discectomy.
Recovery & prognosis
Most patients recover well and experience significant improvement in pain and function.
Description
Lumbar spinal stenosis refers to narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, leading to compression of the nerves.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
MRI is the key imaging modality to confirm the diagnosis and assess severity.
Conservative treatment
Injection therapy
Epidural injections may provide temporary symptom relief.
Surgical treatment
Surgical decompression aims to relieve pressure on the nerves and improve walking ability. Minimally invasive techniques may be used when appropriate.
Recovery & prognosis
Most patients experience improved mobility and reduced pain after treatment.
Description
Lumbar spine fractures usually occur after trauma such as a fall or accident. Some patients may experience persistent pain or stiffness after healing.
Diagnosis
Clinical examination combined with X-rays, CT scans, or MRI.
Conservative treatment
Stable fractures may be treated without surgery using bracing, pain management, and rehabilitation.
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be required to stabilise the spine or address neurological involvement, depending on fracture type and severity.
Recovery & prognosis
Early mobilisation and rehabilitation are essential for optimal recovery. Prognosis depends on injury severity and overall health.
Description
Also known as lumbar spinal fusion. A surgical procedure designed to stabilise the lower spine by permanently joining two or more vertebrae.
It is not a first-line treatment and is considered only in carefully selected cases when other treatments have failed.
Main indications for lumbar arthrodesis
Lumbar arthrodesis may be indicated when mechanical instability of the spine is clearly identified and correlates with the patient’s symptoms.
Degenerative spinal instability
Spondylolisthesis
Recurrent disc herniation with instability
Spinal deformity
Post-traumatic instability
Revision surgery
When lumbar arthrodesis is generally not indicated
Diagnostic work-up before considering arthrodesis
Before recommending lumbar arthrodesis, a thorough evaluation is essential and typically includes:
Goals of lumbar arthrodesis
Expectations and prognosis
Lumbar arthrodesis can provide significant symptom relief when properly indicated.
Recovery involves a structured rehabilitation program, and improvement is gradual over several months.
Outcomes depend on correct indication, surgical technique, and patient-specific factors.
Medico-legal information
!!!! This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a personalised medical consultation. Treatment decisions are individualised and based on clinical evaluation.