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Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:33:01 GMT

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are both minimally invasive surgical procedures that treat osteoporotic fractures. Osteoporosis is a disease affecting more than 28 million Americans. The disease gradually weakens bones and causes them to become brittle, sometimes to the point of breaking. Severe osteoporosis can cause compression fractures in the spine, resulting in the collapse of the spine, as well as severe pain, spine deformity and loss of height. If left untreated, this condition can cause other serious health problems, including chronic or severe pain, limited function and reduced mobility, decreased lung capacity and/or difficulty sleeping. Kyphoplasty If Dr. Siddiqi determines that you are a candidate for kyphoplasty, he will perform the procedure under either local or general anesthesia. He will need to make two small incisions. First, he will insert a special balloon called the KyphX Inflatable Bone Tamp, and gently inflate it inside the fractured vertebrae. The...

Prestige Cervical Disc System Technique

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:32:56 GMT

The surgical benefits of an anterior approach to the cervical spine in the management of the intractable symptoms and physical findings associated with cervical degenerative disc disease are well known. Usually, the symptomatic functional spinal unit (FSU) is mobile and mechanically stable. Anterior cervical disc fusion, though providing symptomatic relief, has the disadvantage of converting the operated segment to a non-functional spinal unit. Cervical disc arthroplasty is intended to preserve the motion segment, reduce return to work time, and reduce reoperations due to pseudoarthrosis. PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc (front view) PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc (side view) PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc (top view) PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc c-ray (forward bending) PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc c-ray...

Disc Replacement

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:32:53 GMT

Although fusion surgery may be effective in eliminating pain symptoms, patients may experience limited flexibility in that particular area of the spine due to immobilization of the vertebrae between the disc. The CHARITÉ™ artificial disc is designed in such a way that it allows your spine to move similar to a normal disc level, giving you room to bend more freely. Another benefit offered by disc replacement with the CHARITÉ™ artificial disc is that, unlike spinal fusion, it does not need a bone graft for the procedure.

If you are seeking an alternative to spinal fusion, then disc replacement with the CHARITÉ™ artificial disc may be your solution. This procedure is recommended for patients with a diseased disc between L4 and L5 or L5 and S1. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) results from a worn or injured disc and causes back pain. Dr. Siddiqi can confirm your disc related low back pain by history, x-rays, or other diagnostic imaging. Patients receiving the CHARITÉ™ Artificial Disc should have failed at least six months of conservative treatment such as pain medication, back brace, and therapy measures.

Are you interested in finding out if you are a candidate for the CHARITÉ™ Artificial Disc?

» Contact Dr. Siddiqi Today!

Lumbar Microdiscectomy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:32:47 GMT

The lumbar spine is the third part of the spine, after the cervical and thoracic portions. The vertebrae that comprise the lumbar spine are the largest and strongest of the three regions because they support the majority of the body's weight. There are five pairs of lumbar nerves that control the movement and sensory functions of the lower extremities. A lumbar microdiscectomy may be needed when certain conditions are present, including: • Leg pain that limits your routine activities • Weakness in your leg(s) or feet • Numbness in your extremities • Impaired bowel and/or bladder function If Dr. Siddiqi determines that you are a candidate for lumbar microdiscectomy, the operation will only require a very small incision, meaning that your recovery time will generally be much shorter than that associated with traditional lumbar surgery. This procedure can be performed as outpatient/day surgery in many cases so patients may return home following surgery if...

XLIF Surgical Procedure

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:32:15 GMT

eXtream Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)

In an XLIF procedure, the spine is approached from the side of the body. You would be positioned on the surgical table on your side and two small incisions would be made: one directly over the side of your waist (through which most of the procedure is performed), and the other slightly behind the first, toward your back muscles (through which the surgeon's finger safely guides the approach).

Additional information on XLIF

Do you need more information about an XLIF® Procedure? Please contact the Texas Spine Center for more details.

Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:31:46 GMT

Dr. Siddiqi performs anterior cervical discectomy on patients to surgically remove a herniated disc that is causing nerve pinching. An anterior cervical fusion usually is completed as part of cervical discectomy to open the disc space and prevent collapse of that space (kyphosis). The cervical spine is the first portion of the spine that begins at the base of the skull. During surgery, Dr. Siddiqi reaches the cervical spine by making a small incision in the front of your neck. Once the incision has been made, he separates the soft tissues of the neck. The trachea and esophagus are moved to the middle, and the carotid artery and jugular vein are moved toward the side. Both are protected with metal retractors. After this happens, Dr. Siddiqi can remove the intervertebral disc and bone spurs to relieve pressure on the nerve or spinal cord. He will use an operating microscope to aid him in the removal process, as well as special instruments and a drill to remove the bone spurs. The...

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:31:20 GMT

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)surgery also is used to remove a portion of bone and disc from the spine to replace it with an implant that is inserted into the disc space. During ALIF, the disc space is fused by approaching the spine through the abdomen instead of through the lower back, as in the TLIF procedure.The goal of the procedure is to obtain a solid fusion between two vertebra, and if this is not achieved, further surgery may be required. During ALIF surgery, Dr. Siddiqi will make a three-to-five inch incision on the left side of your abdomen and retract the abdominal muscles to the side. In some cases, he may be able to use an endoscope, which involves making several one-inch incisions to reach the abdominal muscles. In many cases, ALIF is combined with a posterior approach, such as TLIF, but if little instability exists in the disc space, an ALIF alone can be sufficient. Dr. Siddiqi will perform a diagnostic evaluation to determine if spinal fusion surgery is...

Microendoscopic Discectomy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:30:48 GMT

In selected cases, Dr. Siddiqi may use a combination of microsurgical and endoscopic techniques with the METRX tubular system to perform disc surgery in a minimally invasive fashion.

This alternative procedure relieves herniated disc back pain. Those suffering from sciatica pain also benefit from this procedure. This minimally invasive procedure has shorter recovery times and is less painful than traditional open surgery.

The severity of your back pain and other lifestyle factors will determine whether you are a candidate for this procedure.

Interested in finding out if Microendoscopic Discectomy is the right option for you?

» Contact Dr. Siddiqi online Today!

Microscopic Discectomy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:30:32 GMT

Microscopic discectomy uses microsurgical techniques and the METRx™ system to decompress the nerve root. Enhanced illumination and visualization, limited tissue disruption, and quicker recovery times are all benefits offered by the microscopic discectomy surgery procedure.

The METRx™ system is used by Dr. SIddiqi to remove herniated or "slipped" discs in the lumbar spine. This minimally invasive technique greatly reduces the amount of pain felt by patients after the operation.

Through the use of this new technology, Dr. Siddiqi is able to provide patients with the same benefits of less invasive surgery. The METRx™ system also reduces post-operative pain, shortens recovery times, and makes rehabilitation much easier

For the first time, laminotomy, foraminotomy, medial facetectomy, nerve root retraction and discectomy can be performed microscopically. As a result, patients get the reliability of conventional open surgery combined with the advantages of a minimally invasive technique.

Interested in learning more about Microscopic Discectomy?

» Contact Dr. Siddiqi Today!

Endoscopic Discectomy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:30:19 GMT

Endoscopic discectomy is an outpatient surgical procedure used to remove herniated disc material that is causing uncomfortable pain and pressure in the back. Endoscopic discectomy is an alternative to open lumbar disc surgery and does not involve bone removal or large incisions to the skin. Instead, the procedure involves the use of X-ray imaging and magnified video to help Dr. Siddiqi insert an endoscopic probe through the skin of your back, between the vertebrae and into the herniated disc space.

Once the endoscope has been inserted, Dr. Siddiqi sends tiny surgical attachments through the hollow center of the probe which he then will use to remove portions of the herniated disc. If needed, the surgical tools also can help push a bulging disk back into place or remove disc fragments and small bone spurs.

A local anesthetic is used prior to the start of the procedure, which lasts about an hour. The amount of pain that patients experience is minimal, and there are no stitches required upon completion of the procedure.

The risk of complications from scarring, blood loss, infection and anesthesia that may occur with open disc surgery are reduced or, in some cases, completely eliminated with this procedure. Dr. Siddiqi will determine if you are a candidate for this procedure based on your condition and previous medical history. We will discuss all risks, benefits and complications with you during your office visit.

» Contact Dr. Siddiqi online Today!

Percutaneous Discectomy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:30:02 GMT

The word discectomy refers to the surgical removal of herniated disc material (sometimes referred to as a “slipped disc”) that is pressing against a nerve root or the spinal cord, causing uncomfortable pressure and pain. When this material is removed, pressure is relieved so that the area has become “decompressed.” This is a process very similar to that of letting the air out of a bicycle tire. For some patients, an even more minimally-invasive decompression method called percutaneous discectomy is available. This procedure is performed through the skin, as opposed to large incisions that are needed in open surgery to remove herniated disc material. During percutaneous discectomy, a needle is inserted through the skin to reach the disc from which pressure must be relieved. Patients experiencing pain from a contained herniated disc (meaning there is no rupture in the outer wall of a bulging disc) are candidates for this procedure. Patients who have...

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:28:22 GMT

Due to advances in disc decompression surgery, minimally invasive techniques using endoscopes and microscopes now allow for smaller surgical incisions. Shorter recovery times from surgery means getting back to the things you enjoy.

Minimally invasive techniques that may be recommended by Dr. Siddiqi include:

Percutaneous Discectomy

Endoscopic Discectomy

Microscopic Discectomy

Microendoscopic Discectomy

Spinal Fusion

Percutaneous Spinal Instrumentation

To learn more about Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery, please fill out the form below and we will be in touch with you.

Physical Therapy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:26:44 GMT

Frequent episodes of low back pain (those lasting between two and six weeks) are indications for possible physical therapy treatments. By completing physical therapy sessions and back pain exercises, patients should experience a decrease in back pain and an increase in muscle function. Physical therapy also educates patients on how to continue a maintenance program that can prevent further recurrences of pain. Dr. Siddiqi will assess your back condition and prior medical history to determine if physical therapy is a proper form of treatment for your pain. Two types of therapy are common: Passive Physical Therapy Passive physical therapy focuses on decreasing pain and is considered passive because the procedures are done to the patient, not by the patient. Examples of passive therapies include: Heat/ice packs for heat therapy and cold therapy Both heat and ice help reduce muscle spasm and inflammation and are usually applied for 10-20 minutes once every two hours. These...

Spinal Injections

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:26:39 GMT

Spinal injections are performed either to confirm a suspected diagnosis and/or to reduce pain and inflammation for patients who suffer from chronic spine pain. An epidural steroid injection is a non-surgical approach to treating chronic spine pain and does not serve as a cure for the problem. However, the injection delivers steroids directly to the area of pain to help decrease inflammation that may serve as a source of the pain. Spinal nerves can become inflamed due to irritation from a damaged disc or from contact with a bone spur. The medication from the epidural steroid injection is placed in the epidural space, which is a sleeve-like space around the dura (the membrane that covers the nerve roots in the spine). The process of natural healing can occur more quickly once inflammation is reduced. Results indicate that an epidural steroid injection can significantly reduce pain for approximately 50% of patients. Epidural steroid injection procedure This procedure usually lasts...

Chronic Spine Pain Management

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:26:34 GMT

Managing chronic spine pain requires a certain mindset, and often the support of family, loved ones and others who are experiencing the same condition. Dr. Siddiqi and his staff may recommend one or more of the following techniques to assist in the non-operative care of chronic spine pain management: Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation: The first step in managing chronic spine pain is to receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to determine the severity of the pain, as well as determine a recommended treatment plan. Physical therapy: Both active and passive physical therapy treatments are helpful in managing chronic spine pain. Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy differs from physical therapy in that it is intended to help patients whose daily lives have been significantly affected by a health condition. Occupational therapists help patients achieve a higher level of independence by working with them to develop creative alternatives to carrying out daily...

Symptoms and Causes of Spinal Pain

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:26:30 GMT

Low back pain can originate from a variety of sources such as muscle trauma, spinal conditions such as disc disease, or conditions related to the nervous system. It is important for Dr. Siddiqi to determine the exact cause of a patient's low back pain due to the complex composition of the human spine and the variety of conditions that can give rise to the pain. Some of these causes are listed below: Mechanical Disorders As a result of the natural wear and tear that occurs with aging, certain parts of the spine start to degenerate and wear out with age. This process makes some of the anatomic structures of the spine, including the bones, intervertebral discs, ligaments and muscles less flexible and less resistant to injury. Inflammatory & Infectious Disorders Though infections and inflammation of the spine are rare, if they are neglected for a period of time, or if there is a delay in diagnosis, they can become a significant source of pain and disability. Bone and joint...

Transformational Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:49:21 GMT

The NuVasive ® MAS (Maximum Access Surgery) TLIF procedure is a minimally invasive approach to traditional back surgery. In a MAS TILF, rather than starting from the center and spreading the muscles outward, the surgical approach starts at an angle to the spine and bluntly splits (rather than cuts) back muscles on just one side. This procedure attempts to reduce the approach-related muscle pain often seen in traditional back surgeries by minimizing the amount of muscle tissue disruption. The surgery offers the same advantages as traditional TLIF, but with the added benefit of less tissue disruption and therefore less postoperative pain and quicker recovery. The MAS TLIF Surgical Procedure The surgery is performed with you positioned on your belly. An X-ray is taken of your spine to show the location of the operative disc space. An initial dilator is inserted and used to feel the bony target points on the spine. Once the target is reached and confirmed with an X-ray,...

Spinal Fusion

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:48:25 GMT

What is Spinal Fusion? The spine is comprised of a series of bones called vertebrae, and each vertebra is connected to the next with a strong connective tissue that serves as a cushion for the spine. Spinal fusion is a surgical technique during which one or more of the vertebra of the spine are joined together, or fused, disallowing motion between them. This procedure is performed by placing bone grafts around the spine, causing two vertebral bodies to grow together into one long bone. The bone for the graft may be taken either from another bone in the patient – usually the hip (autograft) - or from a bone bank (allograft). Grafts are placed either from the back of the spine (the posterior approach), from the front of the spine (anterior approach), or by a combination of the two. Spinal fusion may or may not involve the use of plates, screws and cages. When Is Fusion Needed? Conditions such as a fractured or broken vertebra, spinal curves or slippage and some...

Get Your Back or Neck Pain Free -- Without Surgery or Drugs

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:31:58 GMT

Texas Spine Center is devoted to offering the most advanced non-surgical therapies that really help patients. One of the most successful protocols is spinal decompression with the DRX9000™ and DRX9000C™. The DRX9000™ The DRX9000™ is a great alternative to surgery. It reduces loading of the spine and allows discs and surrounding tissues to rehydrate, realign, and generally feel better. The DRX9000C™ While there are many spinal decompression systems, the DRX9000C™ is the most advanced. This patented breakthrough machine is the only technology FDA-approved for both neck and lower back pain. It is a powerful system that utilizes a computer to read the decompression. Extensive clinical testing has proven the DRX9000™ to achieve an 86% success rate...

Vax-D Therapy

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:29:59 GMT

VAX-D (Vertebral Axial Decompression) is a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment for patients who suffer from chronic low back pain, as well as leg pain and numbness caused from herniated or degenerated discs and posterior facet syndrome. Patients who have had back surgery, yet continue to experience pain, may also be candidates for VAX-D. Dr. Siddiqi understands that back pain can disrupt the lives of his patients, making it difficult for them to complete simple tasks or enjoy certain activities. While back pain is usually treated with a combination of therapies, including medication, bed-rest, chiropractic care, physical therapy and exercise, many of these treatments only temporarily reduce symptoms. VAX-D is the only medical device that delivers treatment through its patented logarithmic decompression curve. The treatment is designed to relieve pressure on structures that may be causing back pain usually associated with bulging or herniated discs and degenerative disc disease....