Name of the Procedure:

Osteotomy of the Spine, Including Discectomy, Anterior Approach, Single Vertebral Segment; Each Additional Vertebral Segment (List separately in addition to code for the primary procedure).

Summary

This surgical procedure involves cutting and reshaping a vertebral segment of the spine through the anterior (front) approach while also removing a damaged intervertebral disc. It primarily focuses on a single vertebral segment but can include additional segments as needed.

Purpose

Medical Condition Addressed:

• Spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis, kyphosis).
• Degenerative disc disease.

• Spinal stenosis.

  Goals:

• Correct spinal alignment or deformity.
• Relieve nerve compression or pain.
• Restore function and mobility.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Chronic back pain unresponsive to conservative treatments.
• Neurological deficits due to spinal compression.
• Severe spinal deformities causing functional or cosmetic concerns.

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with severe spinal deformities.
• Individuals with progressive neurological symptoms.
• Adults and sometimes adolescents depending on growth and development.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery.

• Adjustment or temporary discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners).

  Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• MRI or CT scans for precise spinal imaging.
• Blood tests and pre-anesthesia evaluations.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made in the front (anterior) of the spine.
3. Discectomy: Removal of the damaged intervertebral disc.
4. Osteotomy: Cutting and reshaping of the problematic vertebral segment(s).
5. Stabilization: Insertion of hardware (e.g., screws, rods) to stabilize the spine.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Tools and Equipment:

• Surgical scalpels, retractors, bone saws.
• Imaging technology like fluoroscopy for guidance.
• Specialized spinal instrumentation for stabilization.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the number of vertebral segments involved.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital operating room with specialized equipment.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or Neurosurgeon.
• Surgical nurses.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Radiologic Technicians (if imaging is needed intra-operatively).

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection.
• Blood loss.

Rare Risks:

• Spinal cord or nerve damage.
• Hardware failure or malposition.
• Non-union or improper healing of the bone.

Complication Management:

• Antibiotics for infections.
• Blood transfusion if necessary.
• Revision surgery for hardware issues.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Alleviation of pain and discomfort.
• Improved spinal alignment and posture.
• Enhanced neurological function and mobility.

Timeline:

• Pain relief may be immediate, though full benefits are often seen within a few weeks to months.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Pain management with medications.
• Physical therapy starting days or weeks after surgery.

Recovery Time:

• Initial recovery period of 4-6 weeks.
• Full recovery and return to normal activities may take up to 6 months.

Restrictions:

• Limited bending, lifting, and twisting.
• Follow-up appointments for progress monitoring and physical therapy.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Non-surgical decompression.

• Physical therapy and pain management.

  Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Non-surgical options have fewer risks but may not be as effective for severe cases.
• Surgical options provide more definitive correction but come with higher risks and longer recovery time.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The patient will be under general anesthesia and unaware during the surgery.

After the Procedure:

• Expect soreness, pain, and restricted mobility in the immediate postoperative period.
• Pain management through medications, and comfort measures like appropriate bedding and supportive equipment.