Hospital alert: Updated visitation guidelines currently in effect. Please review before your visit.

Spine Surgery

Also known as: Spinal surgery, Back surgery, Decompression surgery A procedure to relieve pressure on nerves in the spine and stabilise the spine to improve movement and reduce pain. Specialty: Neurosurgery

Overview

Spine surgery is performed to treat conditions affecting the spine that cause pain, nerve compression, or reduced movement. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because symptoms such as back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness are not improving with other treatments.

The procedure focuses on relieving pressure on nerves (decompression) and, where needed, stabilising the spine to support normal movement. The goal is to reduce pain, improve function, and help you return to daily activities more comfortably.

When It's Needed

You may need spine surgery if you have:

  • Persistent back or neck pain
  • Nerve pain radiating to the arms or legs
  • Numbness or weakness
  • Symptoms not improving with non-surgical treatment

How It's Performed

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. It may involve:

  1. Removing tissue or bone that is pressing on a nerve (decompression)
  2. Stabilising the spine using implants where needed
  3. Using minimally invasive or open techniques depending on the condition

The approach is selected based on your symptoms and imaging findings. The procedure typically takes about 1 to 3 hours and may require a short hospital stay, depending on the complexity.

What to Expect

Recovery

Recovery varies depending on the procedure. Many patients notice gradual improvement in pain and movement over time.

You may be guided on movement, activity, and rehabilitation to support recovery and strengthen the spine.

Diagnostics & Tests

Before the procedure, your condition may be assessed using:

These help identify the source of the problem and guide treatment.

Support Services

You may receive support such as:

Ready when you are

Ready to take the next step?

Speak to a Nakasero specialist this week — or call our 24/7 line if you need care right now.

Scroll to Top