Spinal surgery
DEGENERATIVE DISEASES OF THE SPINE – THE SURGICAL PROCEDURES
The spine has 23 intervertebral discs. These age over time, become less elastic and shrink. This leads to changes in the statics of the spine.
If the intervertebral disc is missing as a spacer between the vertebrae, they collide directly with each other. And this causes pain. This is because the defective disc exerts pressure on the spinal nerves and spinal cord. Sometimes spinal surgery can bring relief and prevent consequential damage.
Degenerative diseases of the spine
Osteochondrosis and spondylosis: With a degenerated intervertebral disc, the pressure load is passed on directly to the vertebral bodies. The body forms new bone substance at these points. The affected segments ossify. In extreme cases, the spinal nerves and spinal cord are constricted.
Spondylarthrosis: Degenerative wear of the small vertebral body joints (facet joints) leads to this arthrosis. This can lead to instability of entire segments and compression of nerves or the spinal cord.
Spinal canal stenosis: Wear-related changes to the spine, thickening of the ligamentous apparatus or slipped vertebrae can cause the spinal nerves and spinal cord to become constricted. X-rays with contrast medium can be used to precisely localise the area. If the spinal canal stenosis causes paralysis and sensorimotor deficits, the squeezed spinal canal can be relieved surgically.
Degenerative lumbar scoliosis: Wear and tear in several vertebral segments of the lumbar spine leads to a lateral curvature of the spine (scoliosis). This can lead to spondylosis (ossification) and arthrosis. In severe cases, the spinal canal narrows (spinal canal stenosis) and the vertebral segments become unstable. This can lead to neurological deficits and loss of sensation.
OUR DOCTORS
Our specialist for spinal surgery
Get to know the experienced and dedicated neurosurgeon and spinal surgeon Priv.-Doz. Dr Berk Orakcioglu.
BERK ORAKCIOGLU
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Specialist in spinal surgery
Priv.-Doz. Dr Berk Orakcioglu is a specialist in spinal surgery. The neurosurgeon performs highly demanding operations with a high degree of safety and precision. His interpersonal understanding in particular characterises his dealings with his clients.
Surgical procedures for degenerative diseases of the spine
If one of the above-mentioned degenerative diseases of the spine is diagnosed, surgery may be the necessary treatment. The aim is always to relieve the spinal canal and/or stabilise unstable vertebral segments. Depending on the position of the affected vertebrae, surgery can be performed via the back, neck or neck, abdomen or chest. Thanks to state-of-the-art surgical procedures and internationally renowned specialists, the ETHIANUM in Heidelberg is able to offer patients the best possible treatment. Every spinal surgery procedure at the ETHIANUM is planned individually.
