Spine Surgeries
ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion)
Herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis are among the cervical spine disorders that are frequently treated surgically with an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). A tiny incision is made in the front of the neck during ACDF surgery so that the surgeon can access the damaged disc or discs. After that, the damaged disc is removed, releasing pressure on the spinal cord. An artificial material or bone graft is placed into the vacant disc space in order to stabilize the spine and encourage fusion.
Additionally, a metal plate or cage may be used to hold the vertebrae in place while fusion occurs. ACDF surgery aims to alleviate pain, restore stability, and improve overall spinal function, helping patients regain quality of life.
ACDA (Anterior Cervical Disc Arthroplasty)
Anterior Cervical Disc Arthroplasty (ACDA), also known as cervical disc replacement, is a procedure carried out to alleviate symptoms associated with cervical disc degeneration while preserving motion in the cervical spine. During ACDA surgery, the damaged disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc implant, which allows for continued movement and flexibility in the affected area. This procedure aims to relieve neck pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness caused by compressed nerves or the spinal cord in the cervical spine.
ACDA offers an alternative to traditional fusion surgery, as it maintains motion at the treated level and potentially brings down the risk of adjacent segment degeneration. By restoring normal motion and function to the spine, ACDA surgery can help patients achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life.
Foraminotomy
A Foraminotomy is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on spinal nerves in the small openings (foramina) through which spinal nerves exit the spinal canal. A foraminotomy enlarges the neural foramen and provides additional space for the nerves to pass through without being impinged upon by the surgeon, removing a portion of the tissue that is compressing the nerves.
Foraminal stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs, and other degenerative changes in the spine that can lead to nerve compression and related symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness are among the conditions that are frequently treated with this procedure. By decompressing the affected nerves, foraminotomy surgery aims to eliminate the symptoms and restore normal function to the spine, helping patients regain mobility and alleviate discomfort.
Spinal Canal Decompression
Spinal canal decompression is a surgical procedure that aims at relieving pressure on the spinal cord and nerves within the spinal canal. This pressure can result from various conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs, or tumors.
During this spine surgery, the surgeon removes the structures causing compression, which may include parts of the vertebral bone, disc material, ligaments or other tissues. By creating more space within the spinal canal, spinal cord, and nerve roots, decompression surgery aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking.
Depending on the specific condition and the level of compression, different techniques may be used for decompression, including laminectomy, laminotomy, foraminotomy, and discectomy. The goal of spinal decompression therapy is to improve the patient’s quality of life, restore function, and reduce pain and discomfort associated with spinal cord or nerve compression.
Spinal Fixation
Spinal fixation is a surgical procedure used to stabilize and immobilize one or more spinal segments, often performed to treat spinal instability or deformity. During spinal fixation surgery, the surgeon uses various techniques to secure the affected vertebrae together, preventing movement and promoting fusion. This may involve the use of screws, rods, plates, or cages placed along the spine to hold the vertebrae in the desired position.
Spinal fixation is commonly performed in conjunction with other spinal surgeries, such as decompression or fusion procedures, to provide additional support and stability to the spine.
The goal of spinal fixation is to restore spinal alignment, reduce pain, and prevent further damage to the spinal cord or nerves. Physical therapy is often used to help regain strength and mobility after a period of immobilization following spinal fixation surgery. Our spinal fixation doctor in Dubai treats various spinal conditions, helping patients achieve better spinal function and improved quality of life.
Spondylodesis/ Interbody Fusion
(TLIF, PLIF, ALIF, OLIF, XLIF)
Spondylodesis, also known as interbody fusion, encompasses a group of surgical techniques used to fuse two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and alleviate symptoms caused by spinal instability or degeneration.
Common types of interbody spinal fusion surgeries include transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF), and extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF).
During these procedures, the surgeon removes the damaged disc between the vertebrae and replaces it with a bone graft or synthetic material to promote fusion. Apart from this, implants such as screws, rods, or cages may be used to provide stability and facilitate fusion. Interbody fusion techniques offer several advantages, including restoration of disc height, decompression of spinal nerves, and stabilization of the spine to reduce pain and improve function.
The choice of fusion technique depends on various factors, including the location and severity of the spinal condition, as well as the patient’s overall health and treatment goals. Spondylodesis, which in most cases can be performed in minimally invasive technique, is often performed in conjunction with other spinal surgeries to achieve optimal outcomes and long-term spinal stability.
Discectomy / Nucleotomy
Discectomy, also referred to as Nucleotomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at treating a condition caused by a herniated or bulging disc in the spine. During the procedure, the surgeon removes part or all of the affected disc, which is pressing on the nerves and causes radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.
Discectomy may be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as microdiscectomy, where small incisions are made, or endoscopic discectomy, where a tiny camera and instruments are inserted through small tubes. These techniques allow for a quicker recovery and less tissue damage as compared to traditional open surgery.
Discectomy can help alleviate symptoms, restore function, and prevent further damage to the spine by relieving pressure on the nerves and allowing them to heal. The procedure is often undertaken when conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication have been unsuccessful in providing relief, and the patient’s quality of life is significantly impacted by the spinal condition.
The decision to undergo discectomy is made after a thorough evaluation by our spine specialist, who will consider many different factors such as the location and acuteness of the disc herniation, the patient’s overall health, and treatment goals. Overall, discectomy is a relatively safe and effective surgical option for relieving symptoms associated with herniated discs and improving spinal health and function.
Kyphoplasty, Vertebroplasty
Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat vertebral compression fractures (wedge fractures), which often happen due to osteoporosis or trauma.
In kyphoplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to make a cavity, which is then filled with bone cement to stabilize the bone and restore its height. Vertebroplasty entails injecting bone cement directly into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it and decrease the pain.
Both treatments of spine compression fractures help alleviate pain and stabilize the spine in a minimally invasive manner. They are typically performed with the guidance of fluoroscopy or CT imaging to ensure precise placement of the cement.
Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are effective treatments for vertebral compression fractures, offering rapid pain relief and improved mobility with minimal recovery time. Our spine doctor in Dubai will opt for this method for patients who have failed conservative treatments and are not candidates for more invasive spinal surgery.
Brain Surgeries
Craniotomy / Burr Hole
Craniotomy and burr hole surgeries are neurosurgical procedures used to access the brain for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. During a craniotomy, a section of the skull is removed to provide access to the brain, allowing surgeons to remove tumors, repair blood vessels, or treat other brain disorders.
This procedure involves making an incision in the scalp, drilling holes in the skull (burr holes), and carefully removing a portion of the bone to create a “bone flap” that can be replaced after the surgery is complete. Burr holes are smaller openings made in the skull using a special drill or trephine to access specific areas of the brain, such as for drainage of excess fluid or to relieve pressure from hemorrhage.
Both craniotomy and burr hole surgery require precise planning and execution to minimize damage to surrounding brain tissue and reduce the risk of complications. Our neurosurgeon in Dubai performs this procedure under general anesthesia with his skilled team of healthcare professionals.
Recovery from craniotomy and burr hole surgeries varies depending on the underlying condition and extent of the procedure, but patients usually experience good and fast improvements in symptoms and quality of life following this treatment in Dubai.
Ventriculo-peritoneal-shunt
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a surgical procedure used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles. During the procedure, a thin tube known as a shunt is surgically inserted into one of the brain’s ventricles to divert excess CSF away from the brain and into the abdominal cavity, where it can be absorbed by the body.
The shunt consists of a valve that regulates the flow of CSF and prevents over-drainage, as well as a catheter that connects the brain ventricle to the peritoneal cavity. This helps to reduce intracranial pressure and alleviate symptoms associated with hydrocephalus, such as gait problems, urine incontinence and loosing of cognitive functions, sometimes also headaches, nausea, and vision problems.
Shunt Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting by a neurosurgeon experienced in managing hydrocephalus. Though the procedure is quite safe and effective, complications such as infection, shunt malfunction, or blockage can occur, requiring additional treatment or shunt revision surgery. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are pivotal to ensure the shunt is functioning properly and to address any issues that may arise.
Our neurosurgeon in Dubai performs VP shunt placement surgery to improve the quality of life for individuals living with hydrocephalus by relieving symptoms and preventing complications associated with elevated intracranial pressure.
Overview - Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeries
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeries (MISS) are revolutionary approaches to treating various spinal conditions with precision and minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. Advanced technology and specialized instruments are used in MISS techniques to access the spine through small incisions, in contrast to traditional open surgeries that necessitate large incisions and extensive tissue manipulation. This approach delivers numerous benefits, including reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and lower risk of complications.
Precise and Professional Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Dubai by Dr. Martin Liner
Dr. Martin Liner brings precision and expertise to the realm of minimally invasive spine surgery in Dubai and brain surgeries, offering patients cutting-edge solutions with a focus on minimal disruption and maximal outcomes. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to advancing surgical techniques, Dr. Martin ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
Book an appointment to know more about effective spine surgeries that prioritize patient well-being and long-term success.
