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Possible Complications Following Spinal Surgery

About This Blog:

  • There are risks associated with any surgical procedure, but because the spine is such a fragile structure prone to damage so it’s important patients understand their risk of complication following spine surgery.
  • Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine is a highly skilled neurosurgeon who specializes in spine surgery, and he performs procedures that produce a very little risk of complication.
  • In this blog, Dr. Mark Giovanini explains possible complications following spine surgery that patients need to be aware of for their own safety.

Spine surgeons like Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine who understand the importance of patient safety and procedural efficacy always make a conscious effort to inform patients of their risks following spine surgery.

While many patients never run into any issues throughout their spine surgery journey, it is possible for complications to arise in patients with pre-existing health conditions and injuries. Because Dr. Mark Giovanini values patient education, he’s taking the time today to explain some of the possible complications patients may encounter following spinal surgery.

As we mentioned previously, with any surgical procedure there is a risk of complication. Fortunately, Dr. Mark Giovanini performs the latest minimally invasive spine surgery techniques to ensure optimal healing. Regardless, it’s important for him to remain open and honest with his patients about what may or may not happen during the recovery process following spine surgery.

There are common complications that may arise like redness and mild swelling, and then there are severe complications that require immediate medical attention.

Generally speaking, the following signs and symptoms indicate a mild, non-threatening post-operative complication:

  • Slight increase in pain immediately after spine surgery
  • Mild redness and inflammation around the surgical site
  • Light bruising and itchy skin near the incisions
  • Muscle spasms and tenderness along the spine

These mild complications are very common after spine surgery and they usually resolve within a few days or weeks. If these signs or symptoms progress, patients may need to seek immediate medical attention to prevent further damage like partial paralysis or necrosis. Below are signs of severe complications following spine surgery:

  • Infection
  • Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots)
  • Pneumonia
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Spinal implant migration
  • Vertebral fractures

If you believe you’re suffering from a complication following spinal surgery, call NeuroMicroSpine today! Dr. Giovanini will analyze your condition and determine the best treatment approach for the complication that’s present.

For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit https://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.

We hope to see you soon!

The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.