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Revolutionizing Spine Surgery: The Rise of Awake Procedures
Imagine undergoing spine surgery while awake without the burden of general anesthesia. This is becoming a reality in Dayton, thanks to pioneering approaches led by orthopedic spine surgeons like Dr. Norah Foster at Premier Health. Awake spine surgery is gaining traction as a safer, less invasive alternative for patients, particularly the elderly and those with certain health conditions.
In Awake Spine Webinar - Norah Foster, MD, Dr. Foster highlights the advantages of awake spine surgery, prompting us to delve deeper into this innovative approach to patient care.
What Is Awake Spine Surgery?
Traditionally, spine surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, where patients are completely unconscious and intubated. However, awake spine surgery uses a spinal anesthetic combined with sedation. This means that while the patient is relaxed and pain-free, they might still interact with the medical team during the procedure, providing real-time feedback, which is beneficial for both patient and surgeon.
Key Benefits of Awake Spine Surgery
- Reduced Anesthesia Risks: For older patients, who often face cognitive issues from general anesthesia, awake surgery offers a safer option. It avoids issues related to intubation, which can stress the heart and lungs.
- Faster Recovery: Patients generally experience less postoperative nausea and vomiting. With controlled pain management through spinal anesthetic, many patients leave the hospital sooner than those undergoing traditional surgery.
- Lower Opioid Usage: As the spinal anesthetic tackles pain effectively, there is less need for opioid medications, reducing the risk of side effects like constipation and dependency.
Understanding the Candidate Criteria
A growing number of patients may benefit from this innovative procedure. Dr. Foster points out that elderly patients with cognitive impairments or those with a history of nausea from anesthesia are ideal candidates. Conversely, individuals requiring longer surgical procedures, those on blood thinners, or patients who experience high levels of anxiety may not be suitable for awake spine surgery.
Historical Significance and Future Prospects
While the idea of awake spine surgery may seem cutting-edge, it's not new. The technique has roots dating back to the late 1950s. However, its adoption in spine surgery has been slow, primarily due to patient comfort and trust factors. Dr. Foster has been instrumental in establishing awake spinal surgery practices in the Miami Valley, providing deeper insights into how surgical innovations can improve patient care.
Conclusion: A New Era of Surgery in Dayton
The excitement surrounding awake spine surgery in Dayton opens up new possibilities for patients dealing with debilitating back conditions. Dr. Foster’s work is a testament to what’s achievable when cutting-edge medicine meets patient-centered care. As this innovative option continues to develop at Premier Health, residents seeking relief from spine-related issues have reason to feel hopeful.
For those considering spine surgery, understanding the choices available to you is crucial. If you think awake spine surgery might be right for you or have questions about the procedure, reach out to local health experts to gain clarity on your options. Your journey toward improved health can begin today.
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