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Spinal surgery:

expertise and innovative techniques

The spine is a complex and essential structure. Various problems can arise at different levels, causing pain, limited movement or neurological complications. Our centre specialises in spinal surgery, offering precise, modern procedures tailored to each patient.

Herniated disc

Common in the cervical and lumbar regions, a herniated disc occurs when the nucleus of the disc protrudes and compresses a nerve, causing pain in the arm (cervicobrachialgia) or leg (sciatica). Surgical treatment involves removing the hernia either by microsurgery or endoscopically using a camera.

 

  • Cervical spine: a cage or prosthesis is usually placed in the place of the removed disc.

  • Lumbar spine: in most cases, no implant is necessary, as removal of the herniation is sufficient to relieve the pain.

  • Endoscopic surgery: an innovative and minimally invasive technique, it allows the hernia to be removed using a camera the size of a pen, inserted through the skin to the level of the disc. The procedure is less invasive, presents fewer risks of complications and allows the patient to walk again immediately. This technique is commonly practised in our centre, one of the pioneers in Wallonia.

Spinal canal narrowing

Spinal canal narrowing occurs when osteoarthritis causes bone spurs (osteophytes), often referred to as ‘parrot beaks’. These formations reduce the space in the spinal canal and can compress the nerves or spinal cord.

This problem is particularly common in the lumbar spine. Surgical treatment involves opening the spine under a microscope to clean the canal and release the compressed nerve structures.

This is one of the most commonly performed procedures on the spine.

Spinal deformities and instabilities

Spinal deformities or instability problems usually result from damage to the structures that hold the vertebrae together: ligaments, joints, intervertebral discs, or a congenital or acquired malformation.

Surgical treatment most often consists of arthrodesis, a technique that stabilises the vertebrae using implants such as screws, plates or cages.

Depending on the patient's condition and anatomy, arthrodesis can be performed:

 

  • from the back: posterior arthrodesis

  • from the front: anterior arthrodesis

  • from the side: lateral or oblique arthrodesis

  • or in combination, using several approaches simultaneously

Treatment of vertebral compression fractures

Vertebral compression fractures, which are particularly common in older people, require appropriate treatment to relieve pain and strengthen the stability of the spine. Several techniques may be offered depending on the severity and cause of the compression:

 

  • Vertebroplasty: injection of medical cement to strengthen a weakened vertebra, particularly in cases of osteoporosis.

  • Kyphoplasty: a technique derived from vertebroplasty that reduces a vertebral fracture and partially restores the height of the vertebra.

  • Arthrodesis with reinforced screws: stabilisation of the spine when the compression is more severe or associated with instability.

Tumour lesions of the spine

Tumour lesions can weaken the vertebrae or compress the nerves, causing pain and neurological disorders. Surgery is only considered after a thorough assessment, carried out over several consultations, and when non-surgical treatments have been exhausted.

Traumatology of the musculoskeletal system

Traumatology of the musculoskeletal system treats all fractures, whether recent or old, located in the upper limbs, lower limbs or spine. This includes fractures that have already been operated on or are poorly healed, requiring specific treatment to restore function and mobility.

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