Backache

When is back surgery an option?
The decision to undergo back surgery will and should never be taken lightly. Back surgery is a last resort and will only be considered conservative treatment options had failed.

Laminectomy
One of the most common back operations is a laminectomy. Laminectomy literally means “removal of the lamina”. The lamina is part of the spinal canal's bony structure.

Spinal fusion
Spinal fusion is one the three most common back operations. The others are laminectomy and discectomy.

Choose the right surgeon
Orthopaedic, spinal or neurosurgeon – how do you choose?

Three main types of back surgery
Laminectomy, diskectomy and spinal fusion are the three main types of back surgery. The two most common newer less invasive procedures are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.

Before your back operation
The decision to have back surgery is a big one. Both you and the doctor need to be convinced that there is no other way of solving the problem.

Who pays for your back operation?
Having a back operation? Will your medical scheme cover it?

After surgery – things to remember
Although every person's body and recovery period are unique, there are certain things everyone can expect after back surgery.