Scoliosis is a condition that can affect any of the three major sections of the spine: the cervical spine (neck), the thoracic spine (chest and upper back region), and the lumbar spine (lower back). It results in a sideways curvature of the spine, which can vary in severity.
Degenerative scoliosis is a specific form of this condition that develops in adults due to degenerative changes in the vertebrae and disks of the spine. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for degenerative scoliosis can be explored in detail on the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) websitehere.
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) back surgery is a procedure that has been shown to lead to significant improvements in back pain, leg pain, disability, and physical function. Research conducted at HSS indicates that 85% to 90% of patients undergoing TLIF experience positive outcomes and are satisfied with the results of their surgery. Further information on TLIF and its benefits can be foundhere.
Lumbar fusion is a broader term that refers to various spinal surgery techniques used to connect two or more vertebrae in the lumbar spine. The goal of fusion surgery, or arthrodesis, is to encourage the growth of two or more bones together into a single, solid bone. There are different methods of lumbar fusion, and the most appropriate one depends on the specific needs of the patient.
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a type of lumbar fusion that can be performed at various levels of the spine, though it is more challenging and carries a higher risk of complications when done at upper lumbar levels (L1/2, L2/3, L3/4). In such cases, Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) or Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) may be more suitable options. More details on ALIF and its considerations can be foundhere.
The World Health Organization has established a classification system for bone density based on T-scores. A T-score of –1 or greater indicates normal bone density, while a T-score between –1 and –2.5 is indicative of low bone density, a condition known as osteopenia. Osteopenia is not as severe as osteoporosis but still requires attention. More information on bone density and T-scores can be foundhere.
A lumbar laminectomy, also known as spinal decompression surgery of the lower back, is a procedure aimed at relieving stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) or other forms of spinal canal compression in the lumbar spine. Additional information on lumbar laminectomy can be foundhere.
Low back pain is a common complaint, with most cases resulting from musculoskeletal issues. It is crucial to conduct a thorough back exam to differentiate between less severe musculoskeletal issues and more serious causes of back pain. The Stanford Medicine 25 website provides an approach to the low back exam, which can be accessedhere.
