Back and neck pain affect millions of people each year, often limiting mobility, disrupting sleep, and interfering with daily activities. While many spinal conditions improve with conservative care, certain cases require specialized surgical treatment to relieve nerve compression, restore stability, and improve long-term spinal health.
At Dr. Sanjay Khurana, patients receive expert evaluation and comprehensive treatment for a wide range of spinal disorders. As a board-certified spine care specialist serving Marina Del Rey and the greater Los Angeles area, Dr. Khurana combines advanced surgical expertise with a patient-centered philosophy focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.
With medical training from Stanford University School of Medicine and advanced education at UC Berkeley, Dr. Khurana specializes in complex spinal procedures including minimally invasive spine surgery, spinal reconstruction, artificial disc replacement, and cervical spine surgery.
What Is Spine Surgery?
Spine surgery refers to procedures performed to correct structural problems within the spinal column, relieve pressure on spinal nerves, or stabilize the spine.
These procedures may be recommended when non-surgical treatments—such as physical therapy, medication, or injections—do not sufficiently relieve symptoms.
Spine surgery may address conditions including:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Scoliosis
- Spine tumors
- Traumatic spinal injuries
The goal of surgery is typically to relieve pain, restore function, and improve a patient’s quality of life.
When Is Spine Surgery Recommended?
Spine surgery is generally considered only after conservative treatment options have been explored. Many spinal conditions can improve with non-surgical care.
However, surgery may be recommended when patients experience:
- Persistent pain that does not improve with treatment
- Nerve compression causing numbness or weakness
- Severe spinal instability
- Progressive neurological symptoms
- Structural spinal deformities such as scoliosis
A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether surgery is the most effective option.
At Dr. Sanjay Khurana, careful diagnostic evaluation ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their condition.
Modern Advances in Spine Surgery
Advancements in spinal surgery techniques have dramatically improved patient outcomes, reduced recovery times, and minimized surgical risks.
Dr. Khurana specializes in several modern approaches to spinal care, including:
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive procedures use small incisions and specialized instruments to treat spinal conditions with less disruption to surrounding tissue.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced muscle damage
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery
- Less postoperative discomfort
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement is an advanced surgical option designed to preserve motion in the spine while replacing a damaged disc.
This procedure can be an alternative to spinal fusion for certain patients with degenerative disc disease.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic techniques allow surgeons to access the spine through very small incisions using specialized cameras and instruments. These procedures often lead to faster recovery and reduced tissue trauma.
Microsurgical Techniques
Microscopic spine surgery provides surgeons with enhanced precision when removing herniated discs or relieving nerve compression.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Spine Surgery
Spine surgery can address a wide variety of conditions affecting the neck and back.
Herniated Disc
When a spinal disc presses on nearby nerves, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure and reduce pain.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness.
Spondylolisthesis
This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another, potentially causing nerve compression and instability.
Scoliosis
Abnormal curvature of the spine may require surgical correction in severe cases.
Spine Tumors
Certain spinal tumors may require surgical removal or stabilization procedures.
What to Expect from Spine Surgery
Every spinal procedure is different depending on the condition being treated, but patients typically undergo several steps during the treatment process.
These may include:
- Diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scans
- A comprehensive surgical consultation
- Preoperative planning and evaluation
- The surgical procedure itself
- Postoperative rehabilitation and recovery
Dr. Khurana works closely with patients to ensure they understand their treatment options and feel confident about their care plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spine Surgery
Is spine surgery safe?
Modern spine surgery techniques are highly advanced and, when performed by experienced specialists, are considered safe and effective for appropriate conditions.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery time depends on the specific procedure performed. Minimally invasive procedures often allow patients to return to normal activities more quickly than traditional surgeries.
Will spine surgery completely eliminate pain?
Many patients experience significant relief after surgery, though outcomes vary depending on the underlying condition and overall spinal health.
Is surgery always necessary for back pain?
No. Most patients improve with non-surgical treatments, and surgery is typically considered only when conservative care is unsuccessful.
Expert Spine Surgery in Marina Del Rey
Spinal disorders require specialized evaluation and experienced surgical care. At Dr. Sanjay Khurana, patients benefit from advanced diagnostic tools and state-of-the-art surgical techniques designed to relieve pain and restore spinal function.
Recognized as a leading spine surgeon in Southern California, Dr. Khurana provides expert care for complex spinal conditions, including spinal reconstruction, minimally invasive microsurgery, artificial disc replacement, scoliosis treatment, and spine tumor surgery.
Patients experiencing chronic back pain, nerve compression, or spinal disorders in Marina Del Rey or the greater Los Angeles area can benefit from specialized evaluation and personalized treatment options.
