Vertebrectomy

Vertebrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more vertebrae from the spine. This procedure is typically performed to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves caused by various conditions such as tumors, infections, or fractures.

Indications

Vertebrectomy is often indicated for patients with spinal tumors, spinal infections, spinal fractures, or spinal deformities. The procedure may also be performed to alleviate spinal cord compression or spinal nerve root compression.

Procedure

During a vertebrectomy, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes an incision in the patient's back or neck, depending on the location of the affected vertebrae. The surgeon then removes the affected vertebrae and any surrounding tissue that may be causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Once the vertebrae and tissue have been removed, the surgeon may use a combination of bone grafts, metal plates, and screws to stabilize the spine.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, vertebrectomy carries risks and potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, spinal cord injury, paralysis, and death. Other potential complications specific to vertebrectomy include spinal instability, nonunion of the bone graft, and hardware failure.

Recovery

Recovery from vertebrectomy can be a lengthy process. Patients typically require physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. Pain management is also an important aspect of recovery.

See Also

• Spinal surgery
• Spinal cord compression
• Spinal tumors
• Spinal fractures

Vertebrectomy Resources
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