An osteotomy is a general word for a surgical technique. More specifically, an osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping a bone. A surgeon can complete this type of surgery in various locations such as the big toe, chin, hip, jaw, knee, and spine. People of all ages can receive an osteotomy to prevent a more significant surgery down the road, such as a knee or hip replacement. Dr. Han Jo Kim has years of experience performing cervical osteotomies. If you need a back doctor, see our Pain Doctors in Connecticut to receive a diagnosis and treatment that will get you back to feeling better in no time.
Back Structure
The back contains 33 vertebrae which is the name for the bones that make up the back. There are five regions of the back: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx. The vertebrae within these regions have numbers and names based on their location. The joint that connects each vertebrate is called a facet joint which helps provide movement in the back.
Additionally, there are discs in the back in between each vertebrate. Discs are almost like a jelly donut in between the vertebrate. They have a denser outer layer and a soft, liquid-like center. The disc protects the vertebrae from rubbing against one another, especially when external pressures such as movement occur. If there is an issue with a disc that causes the vertebrae to rub against one another, this can be extremely painful. While injuries are relatively common within the back, many back conditions are present from birth and involve growth defects.
Scoliosis is the most common of these conditions. Its associated effects impact people’s ability to walk and complete daily functions. Certain deformities like scoliosis may require surgery to fix the back’s structure and relieve pain. Severe arthritis is another condition that can cause serious problems regarding the alignment of the back. Kyphosis is the excessive curvature within the back, typically towards the cervical region. This curvature can severely impact posture and cause significant pain, especially if it worsens as you age. Kyphosis is a severe curvature that requires surgery to aid mobility, posture, and pain relief. Conditions that impact the curvature and alignment of the back may require a cervical osteotomy from our Pain Doctors in Connecticut.
Osteotomy Procedure
Various osteotomy procedures can be done for the back, depending on where the issue is. The cervical osteotomy procedure with the most significant correction is a vertebral column resection. This surgical procedure involves removing one of the 33 vertebrae in the back to help correct the alignment of the back. Additionally, the surgeon will fuse the vertebrae to a metal cage or graft after the removal of the bone. Again, there are other types of cervical osteotomies. However, this specific osteotomy has the most significant correction, depending on where your back is curved and needs improved alignment. Our Pain Doctors in Connecticut are here to help you and your back. Whether you think you may need a cervical osteotomy or another form of surgery, we are here to help diagnose you and come up with and administer the best treatment possible.
Recovery
Because osteotomy is a significant surgery, the recovery process may take longer and require more steps. After a cervical osteotomy, it is necessary to take time to rest first. You will likely remain in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. Doctors like to watch over their patients after significant back surgery to ensure there are no adverse symptoms associated with the surgery and to ensure they receive the care necessary post-operation. You can walk after the surgery if your body allows you to. Most people, however, do not end up walking right away due to pain and discomfort from the surgery.
After some rest, we do recommend physical therapy. A physical therapy office with experience helping those recover from spinal injuries and surgeries would be best for your recovery. Spinal surgeries can be very dangerous, and the steps you take during recovery can determine your outcome. Going to a specialized physical therapy office will help you recover. Our Back Pain Doctor in Connecticut will walk you through the necessary steps and requirements after receiving surgery.
Han Jo Kim – Best Pain Doctors in Connecticut
A cervical osteotomy may be the proper procedure for you if you have a severe cervical spine deformation. Dr. Han Jo Kim has excellent success performing cervical osteotomies due to his training and years of experience. Our Pain Doctors in Connecticut will ensure you get the treatment you need with the best results. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our experts.