Spine Surgery
Surgical treatment for spinal conditions and injuries.
Spine surgery covers a range of procedures used to treat conditions affecting the vertebrae, discs, and nerves of the spine, considered when non-surgical treatment has not relieved persistent pain, weakness, or nerve symptoms. The specific procedure depends entirely on which part of the spine is affected and the nature of the underlying problem.
Types
Discectomy
Removal of a portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve.
Laminectomy
Removal of part of a vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, commonly used for spinal stenosis.
Spinal Fusion
Two or more vertebrae are joined together to stabilise a section of the spine.
Vertebroplasty / Kyphoplasty
A procedure to stabilise a compression fracture of the spine, often related to osteoporosis.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Certain spine procedures performed through smaller incisions with specialised instruments, where suitable.
Common Causes
Spine surgery becomes an option when a structural spinal problem is causing persistent pain, nerve compression, or instability that has not responded to non-surgical care.
- Disc herniation - a bulging or ruptured disc pressing on a nearby nerve.
- Spinal stenosis - narrowing of the spinal canal, most often related to age-related degeneration.
- Spinal instability - abnormal movement between vertebrae, sometimes following injury or degeneration.
- Vertebral fractures - often related to trauma or osteoporosis.
- Spinal deformity - curvature or alignment problems affecting spinal function.
Signs and Symptoms
- Persistent back or neck pain not relieved by non-surgical treatment
- Pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into an arm or leg
- Difficulty walking or a noticeable change in gait
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, which needs urgent medical attention
- Progressive weakness in a limb
Diagnosis
Diagnosis relies on a detailed neurological examination alongside imaging - X-rays for bone alignment, and an MRI or CT scan for detailed assessment of discs, nerves, and the spinal canal - to identify exactly which structure is causing the symptoms.
Treatment Approach
Surgery is generally considered only after non-surgical treatment - physiotherapy, medication, and injections - has not provided adequate relief, or when there are signs of significant nerve compression needing more urgent treatment. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna explains the specific procedure being considered, why it is appropriate for the particular spinal problem, and what recovery will involve.
Experiencing something urgent? If there is visible deformity, an open wound, sudden severe pain, or the limb cannot be moved or weight-bearing at all, call us right away. Call +91 72595 84549 If you cannot reach us immediately, please go to your nearest emergency department without delay.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026