Traditional or open spine surgery often requires a long period of rest and rehabilitation before you can return to your normal routine. But for many people, newer methods based on technological innovations and improved surgical techniques offer effective results and a quicker return to your usual activities.
Considered a pioneer in the field of robotic surgery, Dr. Patrick Doherty is a board-certified neurosurgeon who leads a team of dedicated experts at Yale Neurosurgery New London in New London, Connecticut.
Dr. Doherty is well-known and respected for his expertise in helping develop safe and effective surgical approaches that significantly reduce or eliminate pain, restore mobility, and minimize recovery time for spinal issues that require surgery.
Find out more about robotic surgery and why Dr. Doherty often recommends it in place of traditional spinal surgery.
Robotic surgery is an innovative surgical technique that uses advanced computer technology combined with robotics to assist with various types of surgery. Dr. Doherty remains in control throughout the procedure, but the robotic system greatly enhances his ability to perform the intricate movements required for spinal surgery.
At Yale Neurosurgery New London, we use the ExcelsiusGPS® system. This advanced platform includes GPS guidance for increased accuracy and eliminates the need for the long, deep incisions required for open surgery. This helps decrease postoperative pain, reduces risk of infection, and typically leads to a faster recovery time than traditional spine surgery.
We do our best to treat your spinal issues with conservative therapies that may include rest, modified activities, guided physical therapy, and medications designed to relieve inflammation and reduce pain.
When your condition doesn’t respond to nonsurgical therapy, however, surgery may be your best treatment option.
Issues that might require spine surgery include:
These conditions can affect any portion of your spine but are most common in the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck).
Results vary depending on your overall health before the surgery as well as the condition being treated, but because robotic surgery is less invasive, it may decrease your recovery time by as much as 50%.
Most of our patients return to work within 1-3 weeks and can expect full recovery by about six weeks. Depending on your job, however, you may be placed on limited activity, such as lifting restrictions, as you undergo rehab.
Dr. Doherty discusses the details regarding the proposed surgery and expectations surrounding your recovery before scheduling your procedure.
Don’t live with back or neck pain. Schedule an evaluation at Yale Neurosurgery New London today. Call our office or request an appointment online.
