Neurosurgical Treatment for Patients With Spinal Deformities in Baton Rouge

Spinal deformity is among the leading causes of disability in adults across the world. Spinal deformities can be caused by abnormal curvature of the spine, which is a symptom of scoliosis, or as a result of a spinal defect or injury. While they are typically not painful, spinal deformities can progress to the point where they alter the spine’s structure. This can place pressure on the nerves in the spine and cause significant pain. When this happens, patients may benefit from surgical treatment to slow or even completely stop degeneration of their spinal disorder. While traditionally, orthopedic surgeons were the primary specialists for these disorders, neurosurgeons are highly trained in performing surgical procedures to treat spinal deformities. The team of board certified neurosurgeons at The Spine Hospital of Louisiana at The NeuroMedical Center offer patients suffering with spinal conditions in the Baton Rouge region access to the most advanced surgical options including minimally invasive laser spine surgery.

Common Types of Spinal Deformities and How A Neurosurgeon Can Help

Perhaps the most well-know spinal deformity, scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that typically occurs in the early teen years but can also occur in young children and adults. While not common, scoliosis can get worse throughout an individual’s life and when this happens, it can cause physical functioning problems, aesthetic concerns, and pain. In cases where scoliosis is interfering with physical abilities, surgery to stabilize the spine may be done to prevent further damage. Spondylolisthesis is another type of spine disorder that is frequently the source of low back and leg pain. This disorder occurs when a spinal disc shifts over top of another one. Ankylosing spondylitis is also a form of spinal deformity. A form of arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis can sometimes impact the knees and shoulders but it mainly affects the spine. The disorder causes inflammation in the joints of the spine and causes painful stiffness. Over time the spinal discs can fuse resulting in reduced movement as the spine becomes more rigid.

Non-surgical options are often the first step for patients with a spine deformity or disorder. When these treatments are not effective or the patient’s condition no longer responds to these approaches, spine surgery may be the right choice. Decades ago surgery for these spinal deformities was considered an exclusive specialization of orthopedic surgeons. Today, neurosurgeons are extensively trained in all aspects of care for the spine, including spinal fusion methods that were previously performed by orthopedic surgeons. Depending on the patient’s specific needs and the complexity of the spinal disorder it is sometimes beneficial for neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons to collaborate as part of the overall treatment plan.

See A Neurosurgeon at The NeuroMedical Center For Your Spine Disorder

Skilled in surgical treatments for all kinds of spinal deformities, disorders and injuries, the neurosurgeons at The Spine Hospital of Louisiana housed within The NeuroMedical Center are among the top spine experts in the entire Gulf Coast. Home to the region’s largest network of neurological specialists, The NeuroMedical Center employs all 10 operating neurosurgeons in the Greater Baton Rouge area. This unique collaboration of experts specializing in every aspect of care for the brain, spine and nervous system offers patients in Baton Rouge and surrounding communities world-class expertise, leading-edge technology, and award-winning surgical treatment for the most complex neurologic conditions. Ranked #1 hospital in the state by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation for 2015 and 2016 and two-time winner of the prestigious Guardian of Excellence Award, The Spine Hospital of Louisiana and its team of neurosurgeons work together with all of NMC’s neurologic specialists to coordinate and customize treatment to provide patients with the highest level of care. If you are suffering with pain and limited mobility due to a spinal deformity, consult with a neurosurgeon at The Spine Hospital of Louisiana today by calling 225-763-9900.

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