What Is Spine Exposure Surgery?
Spine exposure surgery is how we carefully access your spinal column for treatments like spinal fusion or disc repair. It’s a key step, not a standalone surgery, requiring skill to protect spinal nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues. Dr. Sammy Eghbalieh uses minimally invasive techniques, making small incisions to reach the spine—whether from the front or back—based on your condition. This reduces pain and speeds healing compared to open surgery.
Don’t let the term intimidate you. It’s a standard part of spine surgeries, like lumbar spinal fusion, where we stabilize spinal bones. Dr. Eghbalieh’s expertise keeps it gentle, getting you back to your routine with less discomfort. To learn more about this visit our spine surgery page.
SCMSC’s Vascular & Endovascular Surgeons
Why Collaboration Makes a Difference
Some spine cases call for a team effort. Dr. Eghbalieh, a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 10,000 procedures, teams up with neurosurgeons or orthopedic specialists for complex cases, especially those tied to thoracic outlet syndrome. His training from Yale and Albany Medical Center equips him to handle blood vessels and soft tissues with precision, making him a key player in the operating room.
During spine exposure surgery, this collaboration shines. A spine surgeon might stabilize vertebrae or remove a cervical rib, while Dr. Eghbalieh safeguards arteries and veins, like the subclavian vessels. This teamwork lowers risks—think blood clots or nerve damage—and boosts results. At SCMSC, we believe this coordinated care sets us apart, giving you peace of mind.
The Link to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome, or TOS, occurs when nerves or blood vessels get pinched between your collarbone and first rib, near the neck. It can spark pain, numbness, or weakness in your arm or shoulder, sometimes mimicking spine issues. In rare cases, TOS stems from a cervical rib pressing on the brachial plexus nerves or subclavian artery. Spine exposure surgery can help us access the area to remove the rib or ease compression.
Dr. Eghbalieh’s vascular skills are crucial here. In TOS decompression, he protects vessels while a spine specialist clears the path, ensuring we tackle both spine and thoracic outlet safely. Want to know more? Explore our TOS insights at SCMSC—we’re ready to assist.
Is Collaborative Spine Exposure Surgery Right for You?
If you’re researching spine surgery for yourself, you might wonder about collaboration, especially if your doctor hasn’t mentioned it. Here’s what you need to know to feel confident in your care:
Do all spine procedures need collaboration?
Not always. Simple cases, like a straightforward herniated disc repair, may only require one surgeon. But complex conditions—like spinal stenosis with a cervical rib or thoracic outlet syndrome—benefit from a team. Collaboration with Dr. Eghbalieh is ideal when your surgery involves blood vessels near the spine, ensuring safer access and fewer complications, like blood loss.
How do I know if my case needs Dr. Eghbalieh’s expertise?
Ask yourself: Are you having arm numbness, shoulder pain, or circulation issues alongside spine problems? These could point to TOS or vascular concerns, where Dr. Eghbalieh’s vascular skills shine. If imaging shows a cervical rib or your surgeon mentions an anterior approach, his collaboration can make recovery smoother with smaller incisions and less pain.
How do I bring up collaboration without upsetting my doctor?
Start with curiosity, not demands. Try saying, “I read about team-based spine surgery at SCMSC—could a vascular specialist like Dr. Eghbalieh help with my case?” This shows you’re informed and value their opinion. Most doctors welcome questions and may already be considering collaboration. If you’re unsure, call us at SCMSC. We’ll review your symptoms and connect with your doctor to explore the best approach, keeping everyone on the same page.
How Collaboration Benefits You
Teamwork isn’t just about skill—it’s about better outcomes. Here’s what you gain with Dr. Eghbalieh’s collaboration:
- Safer Surgery: His vascular expertise reduces risks like excessive blood loss by protecting blood vessels near the spinal column.
- Quicker Healing: Minimally invasive methods mean less pain and a faster return to life, whether it’s spinal fusion or TOS relief.
- Holistic Care: We address both spine and vascular issues, like nerve compression or TOS, for complete relief.
- Custom Plans: Our team tailors surgery to you, ensuring precision for conditions like spinal stenosis or cervical ribs.
At SCMSC, we’ve seen patients regain strength and mobility through this approach. Dr. Eghbalieh’s knack for complex cases means you’re in skilled hands.
Practical Tips for Spine and TOS Health
While exploring treatment, try these at-home tips to ease discomfort:
- Stretch your neck gently, but check with us to stay safe.
- Sit with good posture to avoid pinching nerves in the thoracic outlet.
- Walk lightly to improve circulation without spine strain.
These can help manage nerve pain until we craft your care plan. We’re ready to guide what works best.
Why Choose SCMSC for Collaborative Care?
SCMSC stands out for spine surgery Los Angeles trusts because we work as a team. Dr. Sammy Eghbalieh, with his spine exposure and vascular expertise, leads care that prioritizes you. Our Los Angeles facility uses robotic technology and imaging services for precision, whether it’s thoracic outlet syndrome or neck conditions. We’re all about less pain, faster recovery, and comprehensive care from start to finish.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Spine issues or thoracic outlet syndrome don’t have to limit you. At SCMSC, our spine exposure surgeons and our team are here to deliver relief with collaborative, minimally invasive spine surgery. Call us at (818) 900-6480 for a consultation in Los Angeles. We’re ready to help you feel your best.
